James Allen Lawrence

Lawrence, James Allen, age 70 (6/29/1950), passed away unexpectedly at his home on June 17, 2021. A graduate of West High School, he served his country in the U. S. Navy during the Vietnam Era and studied horticulture at the University of Tennessee.  His early career was spent as a Safety Inspector in the petroleum industry, although throughout his life, he had many ventures, including landscaping, owning a restaurant, and an absolute jack of all trades; there wasn’t anything he couldn’t do.  He had a servant’s heart, his love for God and family his deepest devotion. He was a friend to everyone. His door was always open, welcoming family and friends (who quickly became like family) with his kind, generous, and loving spirit, and always with a smile, a hug, a cup of coffee, and a plate of his delicious homemade food!  He loved the outdoors, being in the mountains, sitting by a camp fire, but above all being with his family.

Preceded in death by his parents, Robert Allen Lawrence, Ruth Lawrence Jarvis; brother, Paul Lawrence; sister-in-law, Peggy Beaty Lawrence; son, Jody Lawrence; nephews Michael Strickland and Michael Lawrence; wife, Teresa Jarvis Lawrence.

Survived by his children, Liza Lawrence Copeland (Bill), Emily Lawrence, Adam Lawrence, Roy Brading (Tammy); sister, Angela Lawrence Strickland, brothers Robert Lawrence (Tammy), Kenneth Lawrence; grandchildren, Nick Copeland, Jake Copeland, Savannah Conger, Meg Conger, Rane Hill, Jada Lawrence, Amy Brading, Chase Brading, Brandon Snider;  great-grandchild Bellamy Tidwell, step father, Clarence Jarvis; fiancé, Susan McNeeley, his dear friend, first wife, and mother of his children, Nancy Amann Douglas; and many nieces and nephews who loved their “Uncle Shunk.”

A Celebration of Life and graveside service will be held at the East Tennessee State Veteran’s Cemetery, 2200 E. Governor John Sevier Highway, Knoxville, TN 37920, next month on July 23, 2021, at 10:00 am.

In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Knoxville Area Rescue Mission or Second Harvest Food Bank in memory of James Lawrence.