Melba Jean Smith Lawrence

On August 23, 2023, Melba Jean Smith Lawrence passed away peacefully at the age of 80. Melba had two sons and one daughter. She attended Bob Jones University and was the Executive Secretary for Jay Ray Manufacturing. She attended the Florence Baptist Temple. Melba was the devoted wife to Gerald for 57 wonderful years. She was preceded in death by daughter, Kimberly, at childbirth. Melba is survived by Gerald Lawrence (husband); Kevin Lawrence (son); Bryan Lawrence (son); three grandchildren, Ella Lawrence, Cooper Lawrence and Hudson Lawrence; Joy and Freddie Hicks (sister and brother-in-law); Richard and Pamela Smith (brother and sister-in-law); Jenny Lawrence (sister-in-law); Berwyn and Leanna Lawrence (brother and sister-in-law). Melba wished to thank Rebecca Smith (niece) and Lindsey Smith (niece) for their care in her final years. The family will receive friends from 6 – 8 pm Thursday, August 24, 2023 at Stoudenmire-Dowling Funeral Home. Funeral services will be private.