David was born January 16, 1939, on Olive Chapel Road in Apex and grew up on the family farm surrounded by an extended family of siblings, cousins, aunts, uncles, and grandparents. Growing up, he enjoyed baseball, football, wrestling, and an active community life with Olive Chapel Baptist Church.
After graduating from Apex High School, he received his Associates Degree at Gardner Webb and then went on to graduate with his Bachelor’s Degree in History from Wake Forest in 1961. In December of the same year he joined the United States Air Force.
David’s 22 years in the Air Force allowed him many opportunities to travel across the country and overseas. Throughout his time in the missiles program, he developed many lifelong friendships. His time in the Air Force also allowed him to discover golf and downhill skiing, two activities that he enjoyed for many years to come.
After retiring in 1983, David moved with his son and daughter back to the family farm in Apex. It was during this time that he joined the Apex Lion’s Club and remained an active member, working numerous service projects including fish fries and State Fair. He also joined the Apex Golf Association where he planned and participated in many golf tournaments.
David was preceded in death by his parents, Herman Jack Lawrence and Kathleen Sears Lawrence, and his older brother, Tommy Lawrence. He is survived by his sister Nancy Walker (Pete) of Apex, NC, Michael Lawrence of Silk Hope, Jacqueline Huber (Ron) of Fuquay Varina, son, David A. Lawrence (Diana) of Cary, NC and daughter, Stacy Hudson of Sharon, CT.
He is also survived by his four grandchildren, Hannah Lawrence of Raleigh, NC, Gillian and Natalie Hudson of Sharon, CT, and Aaron Lawrence of Cary, NC. He was adored by his nieces, nephews, and great nieces and nephews.
The family is grateful to Transitions LifeCare who provided gentle care and loving support during his final days.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Transitions LifeCare.
Visitation will take place at Apex Funeral Home (Williams Street, Apex) on Friday, September 21, 2018, from 6:00 – 8:00 pm. A Celebration of Life service will be held at Olive Chapel Baptist Church on Saturday, September 22, 2018, at 11:00 a.m.
