Horace Gorman Lawrence

To know Horace was to know kindness. He was a loving father, proud grandfather, beloved “Papa,” coach, teacher, mentor, and faithful friend. He loved people deeply and had a special way of making everyone around him feel valued and welcomed.

Above all else, Horace loved Jesus deeply. His faith was not simply something he believed, but something he lived every day. His life reflected quiet faithfulness, kindness, and a heart that always made room for others.

If you knew Horace, you knew he had a special way of making people feel important. He slowed down. He was present. He never missed a chance to call, check in, and ask how you were doing, and when he asked, he truly meant it. Whether through a long phone conversation, a thoughtful word, or simply showing up, he had a way of making people feel seen, cared for, and deeply loved.

As a coach and teacher, Horace poured into the lives of countless students and basketball players, encouraging them not only in the game, but in life. He believed in people, rooted for them, and genuinely cared about who they were becoming. Many knew him as “Coach,” but even more knew him as someone who showed kindness freely and loved people sincerely.

Horace found joy in life’s simple blessings. He treasured time with family and friends, meaningful conversation, church, gospel music, laughter, and never turned down a sweet treat, especially if chocolate was involved. He had a deep appreciation for cars, especially Dodge and classic Mopar vehicles, and enjoyed admiring them, talking about cars, and sharing stories and memories connected to them. One of his greatest joys was his beloved MG, which he lovingly refurbished and cared for over the years and now remains a cherished reminder of him for those who love him. He had a way of making ordinary moments feel special, and the people around him always felt better for having spent time with him.

In his final season of life, Horace was lovingly cared for by his son, Cameron, daughter-in-law, Marcella, his devoted caregiver, Dezaree, and his two little angels, granddaughters Reagan and Riley, who brought him comfort, joy, laughter, and so much love. Their love and care surrounded him in his final days and reflected just how deeply he was loved.

Horace was preceded in death by his parents, Gordon and Belva Lawrence; his beloved son, Dean Everette; his sister, Cora Guthrie; his cherished granddaughter, Hayden Lenz; and honorary sister, Ellen Peaden.

Horace is lovingly remembered and survived by his son, Cameron Lawrence and wife, Marcella; daughter, Tracy Everette-Lenz and husband, Patrick; daughter-in-law, Dawn Everette; sisters, Vernell Piner and Leigh Lovelace; grandchildren, Annabelle and Ruthanne Everette, Reagan and Riley Lawrence, and Coben and Makenzie Lenz; honorary daughters, Robinette Fischer and Julia Harrison; honorary son, Cameron Coburn, affectionately known as “Cam #2”; along with many beloved extended family members, dear friends, former students, players, and members of his church family whose lives were forever touched by his kindness, faith, and love.

A celebration of Horace’s life will be held on Sunday, May 31, 2026, at 2:30 p.m. at Falkland Presbyterian Church, 5943 Hwy 43N, Falkland, NC 27827. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, fellowship, and celebration of a life so deeply loved.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or Falkland Presbyterian Church, P.O. Box 28, Falkland, NC 27827.