Melvin Lawrence

Melvin E. Lawrence, 66, went to be with his Lord on December 30, 2021. Melvin was born May 30, 1955 to David E. and Nora Giddens Lawrence in Shreveport, LA, where he lived all his life. He was a loving husband and father, and loved spending time with family and friends. Rarely did he go anywhere that he didn’t see someone he knew. After graduating from Southwood High School in 1973, he went on to LSUS and received a Criminal Justice degree. Shortly after marrying in 1978, Melvin graduated top of his class at the police academy and began his 20 year career with Shreveport Police Dept. He was an avid fisherman and hunter, and for the past 15 years, he worked at Bass Pro in Bossier City.

Melvin has had many fond memories and was a great storyteller, who loved to share a variety of life experiences with others, especially if it made them laugh. He was an active member of Shreve City Baptist Church, serving as a deacon. Melvin knew that only because of Jesus lovingly enduring the price of his sins, that he would be welcomed into the pearly gates of Heaven.

Melvin is survived by his wife of 43 years, Alison Duke Lawrence; daughter, April; brother, Michael D. Lawrence (Trish); stepmother, Joyce Howell Lawrence; and many loving aunts, uncles, in-law, step-family, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Melvin was preceded in death by his parents and many other close friends and family.

Melvin’s family would like to thank the numerous doctors, nurses and other medical staff that tried to help make life better for him, when COVID caused a rapid mental and physical decline. Also his family wants to thank those who prayed and showed kindness to Melvin and themselves.

A Life celebrating memorial will be held when it is safe to do so.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggest a donation to Shreve City Baptist Church or a charity of your choice.

They would like to share one of Melvin’s poems...

Because of Me

Because of me, He came to Earth

In a lowly stable, of virgin birth.

Because of me, He lived as a man,

Faithful to fulfill His fathers plans.

Because of me, He always knew,

Just what my sins would put Him through.

Because of me, He took the cross,

So my soul would not be lost.

Because of me, He did not come down,

Forced to endure a thorny crown.

Because of me, stabbed with a sword,

So that one day, I would call Him Lord.

Because of me, He was crucified,

A horrible death, He suffered and died.

Because of me, He paid the price,

Jesus was my sacrifice.

Because of me, He rose again,

Completing victory over death and sin.

Because of me, you too will say,

When Jesus takes your sins away.

Because of me, He’s gone to prepare,

A home so great that none can compare.

Because of me, He’ll come again,

To take me from this world of sin.

When from this world I am set free,

And I come above to live with thee.

I’m thankful that you let me see,

It all was done, because of me.

-Melvin Lawrence