Carl Anthony "Tony" Lawrence, 55, died unexpectedly at his home, Thursday, September 9, 2021. He was born on October 4, 1966, in Roanoke, VA, the son of Richard M. Lawrence and Berta Mae (Lewis) Lawrence.
Carl graduated from William Fleming High School, class of 1985. He worked as a dedicated employee at Rhenus Automotive in Salem, VA. His life's passion however was being a faithful member of Last Days Ministries Church in Roanoke, VA where he served as an outreach minister. He tirelessly witnessed to others about the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ.
Carl was married to Sharon Lanelle (Sims) Lawrence his wife and partner in the ministry, for the last 12 years. He was a friend to many, always looking for ways he could lend a hand, help out in a crisis, or just provide a smile when needed. He loved his family and spent the latter part of his life trying to be an example that you don't have to let your past define you, you can be a better person through better choices.
He was predeceased by his brother, James "Duke" Lawrence.
In addition to his parents and wife, Carl is survived by his sister Elizabeth Lawrence of Roanoke; brother Richard M. Lawrence Jr. (Sherry) of Maryland; son Carl Swain (Sheree) of Fredericksburg; daughters Shanice Swain of Salem, Nykia Gray of Roanoke; and Olivia Lawrence of Roanoke; nieces Shyanne Smith and Janae Jefferson, nephew Sterling Tate; grandchildren Shiana Smith, ZaNaria Guerrant, Darryl Stone III, and Cameron Swain; father-in-law Allan Sims and mother-in-law Denise Sims of Roanoke; sisters-in-law Angeline Sims and Regina Sims of Salem, as well as a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, and other relatives.
A public viewing will be held at Valley Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 1609 Peters Creek Rd. NW in Roanoke, VA 24017 on Thursday, September 16, 2021. The family will receive friends from 3:00 pm-5:00 pm. A private funeral will immediately follow at 5:00 pm.