James J. Lawrence

James J. Lawrence, 87, was born May 16, 1936 in Baltimore, Maryland. With fear that staying in Baltimore would lead him down the wrong path, he was sent to Ithaca, New York at an early age and raised by Raymond and Katherine Price on the Rhine on Floral Ave.

He served in the USMC for four years at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina. He worked for the City of Ithaca as a night watchman and retired from the USPS after more than thirty years as a mail handler.

He enjoyed bowling, fishing, cruising Cayuga Lake in his boat, trips to the Bass Pro Shop, and attending the State Fair. He was active in the community as a member of The Eagles Club #1253 and taught bowling to children on Saturday mornings at Bowl-O-Drome. He loved playing the lottery and always played the same numbers. He was very fond of chocolate and preferred sweets over healthy food. He was also fond of animals, especially feeding peanuts to the local squirrels.

He is survived by his daughters Jill Marie LaRow of Newfield, New York and Sharon Kay (Ray Jr.) Ritzler of Arrey, New Mexico; mother of his children, Ellnora J. Coil of Newfield, New York; brother Johnny Lawrence of Dryden, New York; dear friend Loretta “Faye” Lawrence of Ithaca, New York; as well as five grandchildren, six great-grandchildren and many friends.

He is predeceased by his parents, John and Emma Lawrence; son-in-law James LaRow Sr; and his beloved dog, Blossom and cat, Sunshine.

A calling hour will be held at Perkins Funeral Home in Dryden, New York, on Tuesday January 30th from 10am-11am. Per his wishes, he will be overlooking Cayuga Lake. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in his name to a charity of choice.