Clarence William "Bill" Lawrence

Clarence William Lawrence, known affectionately to friends and family as “Bill,” passed peacefully on February 23, 2026 at the age of 92. A resident of Dunn, North Carolina, Bill was a man defined by his intelligence, quiet strength, desire to help others, and unwavering respect for every person he met.

Born on August 24, 1933, Bill grew up in Norfolk, Virginia, and Baltimore, Maryland. He honorably served his country stateside during the Korean War, a period that helped shape the disciplined and capable man he would become.

For many years, Bill was a pillar of the Baltimore business community as a partner at American Bookkeeping and Tax Service. However, his spirit was not confined to an office. In 1981, Bill made a bold leap of faith, selling his practice and moving his family to North Carolina to own and operate a KOA campground in Wade, NC. This move combined his lifelong love for the outdoors with his passion for new experiences and meeting new people.

Bill’s passion for nature and mentorship was perhaps most evident during his time as leader of Boy Scout Troop 949 in Baltimore. An avid camper, he traveled throughout the United States and Canada in his camper, creating lasting memories with his family along the way. In his 40s, Bill also discovered a talent for woodworking, learning to build furniture—a testament to his lifelong desire to learn and create.

Above all, Bill was a devoted family man. He was most proud of the accomplishments of his children and grandchildren, finding his greatest joy in their successes.

He was preceded in death by his first wife, Mary Jane (Howell) Lawrence; his sister, Roberta; and his brother, Lloyd. He is survived by his wife, Doris; his children, Linda, Robert (Barbara), and Thomas (Mica); his cherished grandchildren, Caroline, Sean (Colleen), Charles, and Grayson; and his great-granddaughter, Fiona. He is also survived by Doris’s sons, Jesse (Kathy) and Kenny (Tammy), and their children and grandchildren. Additionally, he is survived by Robert’s stepchildren, Keith Autry (Christina), Jeremy Autry (Cheryl), and Kelley Autry, and their children and grandchildren.

Bill will be remembered as a kind soul who lived by a simple code of respect, dignity, and integrity. His legacy lives on in the family he loved and the many lives he touched through his service and leadership.

A memorial gathering will be held on Saturday, May 23, from 10-11 am, at the ECKHARDT FUNERAL CHAPEL, P.A., 3296 Charmil Drive, Manchester, MD, where a memorial service will begin at 11 am. In honor of his spirit, the family invites visitors to wear "happy" colors to the service.

Interment is private.

In lieu of flowers, donations in Bill's memory made be offered to Sansom Community Church, P.O. Box 97, Dunn, NC 28335