The Legendary Life of 

Roy Eli Lawrence, 95, of Texarkana, TX, transitioned quietly and peacefully on Friday, June 12, 2026, surrounded by friends and family at home. He was born in Ogden, AR, on October 16, 1930, to Eli Lawrence and Jessie Brown Hunt.

He was first and foremost a dedicated follower of Christ, a committed husband, compassionate father, protective uncle, and humble servant to his family, friends, and community. His humor, quick wit, and service to others will remain an enduring legacy for all who knew and loved him.

 Roy was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved sister, Louie Bell Owens, who was the heart of his heart, as well as her children and their descendants. Louie Bell's family brought enduring joy to Roy's life, and he cherished each of them deeply. Zelma Owens, Maudies Turner, Deverl Owens, Julius Ronnie Owens, Jessie Keeton, and Fandra Walker were not only his cherished nieces and nephew, but also his very close and treasured friends. Roy had many close relatives and friends, too numerous to name individually; however, the lives of everyone who encountered him were impacted by his genuine smile and gentle spirit.

 Roy had three children. His son, Henry Aaron Lawrence, preceded him in death on August 17, 1983. He is survived by his daughter, Pamela K. (Roderick F.) Patterson and his son, Rickey L. Lawrence. Roy's surviving children inherited something far more precious than silver or gold, the certainty that they were loved deeply and unconditionally by a kind and devoted father throughout their lives. Roy took Roderick and others in as his own children, as his generous heart could not be contained by biological lines. 

Emma L. Lawrence was the love of Roy's life, and together they shared nearly 76 years of marriage. They attended Second Baptist Church in Illinois under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Wallace Sykes. The Lawrences believed not only in attending church on Sundays but also in living a sacrificial Christian life throughout the week. Their love for God was demonstrated through their service to others and their willingness to help those in need. 

Together, they worked tirelessly to build and sustain several businesses, ranging from real estate to sales. However, the business for which they became best known in the Texarkana community was Henry's Child Development Center. Their marriage, their lives, and their shared vision were centered on loving one another and helping others. 

The Lord later led the Lawrences to the loving and hospitable church family at Canaan Baptist Church. There, Roy continued to grow in his faith and was deeply loved by Pastor Fred Smith, Linda Smith, and their children, Frederick and Andrea Smith. Roy served faithfully as a trustee and was passionate about helping maintain the church building, taking great pride in caring for God's house. 

Roy attended A.M. & N. College in Pine Bluff, Arkansas. He also served his country overseas during the 1950s, receiving an honorable discharge from military service. Later, he became a mid-level manager for a large corporation in Illinois. His professional life included careers in carpentry and business management, but his most fulfilling calling after retirement was serving families and children in the community as a mentor, guide, counselor, surrogate father, and grandfather. 

Now that his earthly assignment has been completed, we are grateful to have witnessed the joy he found in serving others and making their lives better. Roy was known for improving every place he touched and every life he encountered.

 If Roy could offer a word of guidance to all those here today, he would encourage us first to fellowship with and develop a close relationship with Jesus Christ. He would sing today, “Come to Jesus,” as he is now experiencing the eternal joy and peace of accepting Jesus Christ as his Lord and Savior. Serving God was always his highest priority. His final advice would be to make your home a better place to live, your community a safer place for vulnerable individuals, and the world a better place by striving each day to be the best person you can be

The Funeral will be held on Saturday, June 20, 2026, at 12:00 Noon, with the Visitation one hour prior, both at Canaan Baptist Church, 1002 Laurel St, Texarkana, AR 71854. The burial will follow at Chapelwood Memorial Gardens and Monuments Cemeteries, 1001 N Kings Hwy, Texarkana.

You may sign the guest registry at http://www.carriganmemorial.com

Arrangements are entrusted to Carrigan Memorial Funeral Services.