Lawerence James

Lawrence "Baby" James was born on March 15, 1959, in Lafayette Louisiana to Odell James Sr. and Elma Bruno James. He was raised in Basile, where he attended school and graduated from Basile High School, home of the Bearcats.

Lawrence had a lifelong passion for sports and weightlifting and excelled in everything he pursued. Well known throughout his community, he earned numerous awards and trophies and was admired for his determination, competitive spirit, and unwavering drive.

After high school, Lawrence married and was blessed with three children: Celena, Lawrence Jr., and Jeremy. He later had a fourth child, Tylerton. In 1990, he moved to Colorado, where he later welcomed his fifth child, Hannah. He loved his children wholeheartedly and extended that same love, guidance, and encouragement to many other children throughout his life. Dedicated to serving others, he coached adapted basketball and remained committed to giving back to his community.

In 2009, Lawrence's life took a beautiful turn when he met Deanna, along with her beloved fur babies, Cali and Buddy. Their love and companionship brought him immeasurable joy. Lawrence and Deanna were married in Colorado in 2013 and built a life together filled with laughter, friendship, devotion, and countless cherished memories.

Lawrence’s faith in God was the foundation of his life. A devoted Christian and member of Eternal Rock Church, he loved the Lord and sought to honor Him in both word and deed. He faithfully served as a Sunday School teacher for kids and adults alike, finding great joy in sharing God’s Word and encouraging others in their walk with Christ. His faith was not limited to Sundays, it was evident in the way he treated people, offered guidance, and opened his heart to anyone in need. He touched countless lives with his compassion, generosity, and unwavering Christian character. Those who knew Lawrence will remember a man whose love for God shaped the way he loved and cared for others.

Lawrence built a distinguished career as a professional truck driver, working for Budget Rent a Car, Sara Lee, Bimbo Bakeries, FedEx, and Saia. He took great pride in his work and especially enjoyed serving as a driver trainer, helping others succeed in the profession. Throughout the industry, he earned respect and recognition for his commitment to safety, professionalism, and mentorship.

Outside of work, Lawrence treasured time with family and friends and maintained his lifelong dedication to fitness. He enjoyed sharing advice, helping others, meeting new people, and making friends wherever he went. His kindness, generosity, sense of humor, and youthful spirit left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

Lawrence entered eternal rest on June 6, 2026, at his home in Westminster at the age of 67.

He is survived by his loving wife, Deanna Hefti-James; his children, Lawrence James Jr., Jeremy James, Tylerton Kennedy and Hannah (Solomon) Davison; his siblings, Lester Glen (Marlise) James, Jesse (Martha) James, Eddie James, Bernadette James, Katina James Captain, Cedric (Rhonda) Barron, Chelsea (George) Thomas, Yolanda (Manuel) Gail Ford, and Vajuan Washington; his grandchildren, Unique, Jeremy, DeeAndra, and Sophi; his great-granddaughter; his mother-in-law, Darla Larson; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, friends, and extended family members, including Delphine, Giovanni, Olivia, and Enzo Gore.

He was preceded in death by his father, Odell James Sr.; his mother, Elma Bruno James; his brother, Odell James Jr.; his daughter, Celena James; and his close brotherly friend, Tanguy Gore.

In the hearts of those he touched, Lawrence will forever be remembered for his infectious zest for life and the love that radiated from his very being. His legacy of kindness, generosity, strength, and joy will continue to inspire and uplift all who were fortunate enough to know him.

Celebration of Life

A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Generations Church, 10100 Grant Street, Thornton, CO 80229.

In Lieu of Flowers

The family suggests memorial donations to The Wild Animal Sanctuary, Keenesburg, CO. Contributions may be made online at [https://www.wildanimalsanctuary.org].