Malvin Bryant Lawrence, Jr.

Malvin Bryant Lawrence, Jr. of Effingham, SC passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 7 after a brief illness. He was 80 years old. Bryant was a lifelong member of Elim Baptist Church and several years saw him not miss a single Sunday’s service. A quiet and jovial presence from the pews, he loved his church and church family and consistently embodied Christian joy. Bryant was an avid gardener, constantly looking forward to his next harvest. As generous as he was hard-working, he always shared the literal fruits of his labor with family and friends. Few things made him happier than being able to give someone their favorite fruit or vegetable fresh from his garden. More than all of this he was a beloved member of his extended family. A gentle spirit with an infectious smile, generations knew and loved “Uncle Bryant” and his absence will be more than missed – it will be irreplaceable. Bryant’s full 80 years demonstrated the very essence of the Christian’s life – peace, joy and belonging are inherited and not based on earthly works. He loved and took joy in the most precious of things: going to church, being with his family and working in God’s creation. His final homecoming was anxiously awaited by his pre-deceased parents, Malvin Bryant Lawrence, Sr. and Cora Alice Lawhon Lawrence. He is survived by his siblings, Ruth Pierce (Don), Margaret Rogers (Ronny), Hal Lawrence (Nancy), his friends Sammy Singletary and Amy Hodge, nieces and nephews- Donny, Barry, Billy, Beth, Jason, Jessica, Janet, and 18 great nieces and nephews. Graveside services will be held at 11:00 AM Wednesday, April 10, 2024, at Lawrence Memorial Cemetery, Effingham, SC, directed by Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. Family will receive friends immediately following the service. In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to Elim Baptist Church, 1303 Olanta Highway, Effingham, SC 29541 or Lawrence Memorial Cemetery, C/O Ruth Lawrence, 6355 Lawrence Road, Effingham, SC 29541 Please sign the Guest Book for the family at www.stoudenmiredowling.com.