Gary "Popo" Lawrence

Gary “Popo” Lawrence passed away on Saturday, September 23, 2023. He spent his last days surrounded by those that loved him. Popo was born in Thomasville, Alabama, one of nine children and the only boy born to the late Tommie and Nellie Lawrence.

He married Zion Williams on July 17, 1990. They shared 24 years of marriage prior to her passing on August 22, 2014. For the last six years, he shared his life with his second wife Sarah Lawrence.

Gary served with the United States Air Force from 1980- 1986. He than began his 18 year career with the United States Postal Service.

Popo loved all of his family, especially his grandchildren. He was a wonderful and loving pastor of The Ark of Safety for All Nations church. Popo was an amazing example of a true man of God. He always put God first in his life and always encouraged others to do the same. Popo’s preaching and teachings were inspired by God and much respected. He was an amazing singer and drummer who used his talents to praise God. Popo was one of the most generous and giving people you would ever meet. Everyone who knew or even just met him fell in love with him. He was funny and silly but also knew when to be serious. Popo was very protective of all those he loved and always willing to give them one of his bear hugs. If you ever needed him, he would be there. Popo somehow knew how to get to every location and how to fix anything. He also loved his football and cheering on the Dallas Cowboys.

Popo is survived by his wife Sarah, eight children Wendy (Henry) Schemper, Kenyata White, Lala (Elijah) Marshall, Jessica (Paul) Darby, Jeremiah Lawrence, Aimee (Rafael) Melendez, Yazmin (Isaac) Lesar & John “JJ” Lesar, eight sisters Thelma, Dorothy, Johnnie Mae, Alice, Frances, Elaine, Janice & Anita and half brother Ervie Dee Lawrence. He is also survived by five stepchildren Jamie, Laura, Tabitha, Timothy & Nicole, 18 grandchildren and 20 step grandchildren.

Family and friends are invited to a service celebrating Popo’s life on Friday, September 29, 2023 at 9AM at West Resthaven Funeral Home, 6450 W. Northern Avenue, Glendale. Burial with military honors will follow in Resthaven Park Cemetery.