Deacon Roel Lawrence was born January 9, 1935 to Wilbert and Ruby Bulgin Lawrence in Montego Bay, Jamaica.

He attended Springfield Elementary School there in Montego Bay. Deacon Lawrence moved to Florida in 1952 from Jamaica and traveled here and settled in New Jersey.

He was employed by Owen Illinois in Bridgeton, New Jersey and later was employed by Anchor Hockings in Glassboro, New Jersey.

Mr. Lawrence was a Deacon and a very active member of the Bethany SDA Church in Bridgeton, New Jersey. He was one of many that helped build the church.

He leaves to cherish his memory, his loving wife Winsome Hemmings Lawrence, his children Deliah, Marcia, and Donnett, 11 brothers, 9 sisters, 7 grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.