Obituary of Lois Bowen Lawrence

Lois Bowen Lawrence passed away peacefully on August 12, after a brief illness. Lois, 92 years old, was much loved and will be sorely missed. She was born in Philadelphia and grew up in Glen Ridge, NJ. She lost her brother David during World War II, but she and her sister Jean remained close throughout their lives. Lois graduated from Glen Ridge High School in 1945 and Randolph-Macon Womens’ college in 1950. She and William Walker Lawrence were married for 64 years until his death in 2015. Lois was known for her great sense of humor and her extraordinary generosity. She was renowned for being the first to approach a newcomer and knew how to make each person feel appreciated. She was also steadfast in her friendships, and supported those who were going through difficult times. Lois was an avid volunteer at her childrens’ schools and at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church of Montclair. She co-ran the church’s thrift store, Second Time Around Shop, for many years, and took pride in the shop’s support of Toni’s Kitchen at St. Luke’s and other charitable organizations. She and Bill loved to travel, enjoying trips around the U.S., Canada and Europe. They ventured as far as Russia and Bolivia. They took many trips to visit family members and friends. In recent years Lois has been an active part of her Crane’s Mill community. As a modern senior, she enjoyed being adept at Facebook and Words With Friends games that she often won. Her children, Pamela Bowen Lawrence, William Walker Lawrence Jr., his wife Denise Ward Lawrence, and David Bowen Lawrence, appreciated the non-stop support and the terrific grand-parenting. Grandchildren Ryan, Miranda, Emily, Fiona, Isabel, Dylan and Julia often stayed with Lois and have many fond memories of her abundance of laughter and love. In addition, Lois leaves behind three great-grandsons and a host of nieces and nephews as well as their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family will hold a private service. In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to Toni’s Kitchen, Doctors Without Borders, or a charity of your choosing.