Judith Matilda Lawrence

Judith Matilda Lawrence was born on December 14, 1943, to the late Ethelbert and Millicent Wallace in Brooklyn, New York. She was the youngest of five siblings all of whom preceded her in death.  
Judy, affectionately known to her family and friends, was educated in the New York City school system, and graduated from Wingate High School. She was proficient in accounting and started working for the flagship store Lord & Taylor. Over her 35 years of service, she was promoted to an executive of the Sales Tax Department. She worked alongside her best friend and boss, Virginia Bachman.  
Judy grew up in a God-fearing home and was born, raised, and baptized in the original Beulah Church of the Nazarene. Her mother Millicent Wallace was a founding member of the church, under the leadership of its first pastor, the late Rev. Levi Franklin. Judy’s commitment to God was evident through her service to and love for Beulah. She served for many years as the Sunday School Secretary, was on the Missionary Circle, The Willing Workers Ministry, was an active member of the Young Peoples Society, a strong soprano of the Young Peoples Choir and a member of the Church Board under the leadership of the late Rev. Randolph Holder.  
In 1962, she met the love of her life, Malcolm Lawrence at Beulah Church. And on December 11, 1971, they were wed in holy matrimony. They celebrated 50 years of marriage with a renewal of their vows in December 2021. They both took their wedding vows seriously and were committed to each other for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health... Malcolm truly kept his vows and took exceptional care of Judy when she became ill.  
Judy loved young people and was a source of encouragement to many over the years. She always had a kind word and a smile. On many a Sunday the children would flock around her for a hug, a gift, or candy. She did not only give to the children at church but was willing to help anyone in need. Everywhere we went as a family, she could be found engaged in a lengthy conversation. She willingly embraced all with whom she came in contact. She treated everyone like a long-time friend.  
Judy was culturally well-rounded. Her love for culture was evident in her enthusiasm for the arts, music and learning about the different customs of people from around the world. She enjoyed exploring new foods. Eating sushi was one of her favorites. She delighted in attending plays and Broadway shows, was an avid reader, loved walking, gospel music and old hymns. She could be heard humming a tune while doing chores around the house. Her home was an oasis for family and friends. There was always a revolving door for guests. All were welcome. Judy was adept at both the aesthetics and the hospitality of hosting, making every family gathering a delightful experience. Her table-setting skills were unparalleled. One of her most favorite things to do was shop. True to character, most of the items she bought were for her nieces and nephews. Although she had no biological children, she treated each of them as though they were her only child. They were all special in her eyes.  
She leaves to cherish her memory, her loving and faithful husband Malcolm, 3 brothers-in-law: Keith (Belinda) Lawrence, Michael (Esther) Lawrence, Roy (Claudine) Lawrence, 2 sisters-in-law: Sybil Lawrence and Julia (Jabez) Springer, nieces, nephews, Godchildren, and a host of cousins and friends.  
It will never be the same without her, but we are better because of her. 
We are better people because of what she poured into each of us. 
What a wonderful legacy to leave behind. We are better people because of Judy. 
The Family