Harley L. Lawrence of Forestville, MD passed on February 27, 2018 at the age of 87 years.
Born in South Hero, Vermont, the son of Ellen Lombard Lawrence and John Lawrence.
Harley grew up in South Hero, Vermont. Shortly following his high school graduation, he enlisted in the US Air Force in 1950 and during his 20-year Air Force career, he held command and staff positions as an aircraft mechanic. He was deployed and served overseas in Vietnam. He retired honorably on December 31, 1970 with a rank of TSgt.
After his military retirement, Harley worked for several years for the American Short Line Railroad Association as a printer.
Harley was introduced to Jean at a Thanksgiving dinner, orchestrated by one of his military pals in November 1957. They were married in May of 1959 beginning their love story that spanned over 45 years before her death in 2004.
Harley loved life with Jean, raising their four children. Together, they held tremendous pride for their children and grandchildren.
Harley spent his entire life caring for his family, his church family, friends and people he met along his life’s journey. He lived a life of service and dedication to others.
Harley was an incredible person who represented the best of what people could be, and was an amazing role model to his children and grandchildren. He can be remembered tinkering on anything mechanical that needed fixing. He would grab his tool box and off he went.
A spiritual man, Harley never lost sight of the power of faith. He was a charter member of the Oxon Hill Church of Christ and also served as a deacon and a treasurer. Harley leaves behind the difference he made in the lives of those he loved.
Harley is survived by his children, Kimberly K. Lawrence of Sterling, VA, John K. Lawrence (Laura) of Franklin, TN, Dawn A. Rock (Robert) of Mechanicsville, MD and Richard D. Lawrence of Owings, MD; grandchildren Jason Lawrence, Kelly Lawrence, Ryan Cole, Kacy Cole, Brandon Lawrence & Hayley Lawrence; great-granddaughter Jaycee Lawrence.
