May 6, 1940 – October 15, 2025
Billie Ray Lawrence of Buffalo, Missouri, passed away peacefully on October 15, 2025, at the age of 85. Born on May 6, 1940, in Tuskegee, Oklahoma, Bill was the beloved son of JB and Aline Lawrence.
A proud graduate of Bristow High School, Class of 1958, Bill went on to earn his Associate’s degree from Tulsa Junior College. He served his country honorably in the United States Air Force from 1958 to 1962, embodying a lifelong commitment to service and community.
On Sept. 3, 1964, Bill married Patricia Ann Russell, with whom he shared many cherished years until her passing in 1995. He later found love again and married Donna Russell on Oct. 12, 1996, who survives him.
Bill dedicated his professional life to public service, first as a police officer and later as a letter carrier for the United States Postal Service, from which he retired. His work ethic, integrity, and kindness touched many lives.
Outside of work, Bill found joy in life’s simple pleasures. He loved gardening, reading, taking long walks, sharing coffee with friends, engaging in spirited political discussions, and indulging in his favorite treats, popcorn and ice cream.
He is survived by his loving wife, Donna Lawrence; children Timmie Spangler, Billy Lawrence (Trish), and Jenny Brown (Russell); stepchildren James Lee Russell and Cara Renee Long; brother Terry Lawrence; grandchildren Beth Bishop, Lacey Lawrence, Seth Spangler, Garrett Lawrence, Annie Dobrinski, Makenzi Steele, Haven Brown, Miley Brown, Ian Spangler, and Zeke Brown; step-grandchildren Justin Andrew Grinter, Jeffrey Paul Grinter, Jace Raymond Grinter, Emma Lane Russell, and Gabriel Zane Russell; and great-grandchildren Luke Smart, Karter Lawrence, Carley Spangler, Memphis Spangler, Rex Spangler, Xander Lawrence, Aunders Lawrence, Alice Vada Grinter, Piper Ray Grinter, Jude Enos, Annabelle Enos, and Nash Enos.
Bill was preceded in death by his parents, JB and Aline Lawrence; his first wife, Patricia Ann Russell; his brother, Darrell Lawrence; and his sister, Donna Sue Cantrell.
A Celebration of Bill’s life was held at 1 p.m, Monday, Oct. 20, 2025 at Hutchins-Maples Matherly Funeral Chapel.
Online condolences may be given online at www.matherlyfuneralhomes. com