Missing Grandpa

Walter Griffin Lawrence

Uncle Keith, Nana, Mamaw, Aunt Charlotte, Uncle Kevin

The past month has been a difficult one . Grandpa Lawrence had a stroke . He spent about a week in the hospital and passed away.

Cousins Brian and Kyle, Mamaw, Cousin Sean and Uncle Kevin

Grandpa lived a wonderful 97 years. We are incredibly thankful for the time we had with him, yet it seems so short. No matter when a person leaves this earth, you always long for one more day.

Nana and Uncle Jackie

I wasn't fortunate enough to ever meet either one of my Grandfathers. I met Grandpa over 17 years ago and from the first time I met him, he treated me like his own granddaughter.

Unc, Nana, Mamaw, and Daddy

At his funeral Uncle Jackie used the word integrity to describe Grandpa and I honestly can't think of a better word. When I imagine the type of men I want my sons to become, Grandpa is the person I picture.

The younger Griffin and Mamaw

We were so blessed to be able to name two of our sons after him. He took great joy in his namesakes and would often say "I don't know why they named him Griffin/Walter" with a twinkle in his eye.

Cousin Rachel and her girls, Ava and Olivia with Mamaw

 

While we miss him daily and will until we meet again, we know that Grandpa is in a better place. He's waiting for us to join him and his presence will make that glad reunion day even sweeter.



 

Mamaw and several of her great-grandchildren

 

 

Walter Griffin Lawrence died Thursday, May 2, 2013 in Memphis, Tn. He was 97 years of age. He was born December 16, 1915, to Fletcher and Annie Lawrence. He married Miss Nannie Sue Futrell on November 24, 1948.

 

He was proceeded in death by two brothers, Robert and Jim; and one sister, Lucille Bradley.

 

Mr. Lawrence was a veteran of World War II, having served in Southern Italy and North Africa in the 19th Regiment of Combat Engineers. He worked as a farmer and factory laborer most of his life. With a small amount of education, he was very smart and ambitious. He enjoyed working, gardening, carpentry, fixing and tinkering with things and spending time with his family and friends.

 

Griffin is survived by: His wife of nearly 65 years, Sue Lawrence; Two sons: Keith and Kevin; Two daughters: Charlotte and Vicki; 10 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

The following song was written by Nana and sung by Nana and Aunt Charlotte in honor of Grandpa and Mamaw