Patrick Nicholas Lawrence, Sr. (Landau)

Patrick Nicholas Lawrence Sr. (Landau)

October 31, 1946 – November 18, 2024

It is with profound sadness that we honor the life of Patrick Nicholas Lawrence Sr., a devoted father, decorated Army veteran, retired medical doctor, and a man of unwavering faith whose compassion, wisdom, and kindness left an indelible mark on countless lives.

Patrick was born on October 31, 1946, to Dewey Dee "Buck" Lawrence Jr. and Mabel Wingate Lawrence as the third of 15 children in an extraordinary family. He was baptized and made his Confirmation at St Mary Catholic Church. He attended St. Mary Catholic School, where his academic excellence culminated in his graduation as Valedictorian of the Class of 1964.

Patrick’s college education was interrupted when he enlisted into the military. After being accepted into Officer Candidate School, he was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant and deployed to Vietnam from December 1968 to September 1969. During his service, Patrick faced unimaginable challenges, including a life-altering gunshot wound to the chest and arm that resulted in the loss of function in his right hand. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, he adapted by relearning essential skills with his left hand.

Patrick’s leadership and determination earned him two promotions during his deployment, and he retired from the Army at the rank of Captain. In recognition of his courage, he was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for valor, the Purple Heart for his extraordinary sacrifice, along with the Vietnam Service Medal, Vietnam Campaign Medal, and National Defense Service Medal, honoring his unwavering dedication to his country.

After his military service, Patrick pursued his dream of healing others. He earned his doctorate from the University of Texas Health Science Center in San Antonio in 1977, graduating with honors. Over a 50-year career as a medical doctor, Patrick’s expertise and compassionate care brought comfort and hope to countless patients.

Patrick’s accomplishments extended far beyond his professional life. He was a licensed pilot and a man of profound faith. His book Dying to Live written in 1989 encourages readers to face their mortality, embrace divine love, and live authentically in a deeper relationship with God. He never missed an opportunity to share his love of God and God’s love with others. His words of encouragement, heartfelt prayers, and enduring hope inspired all who knew him.

Those closest to Patrick often described him as “the smartest person” they’ve ever known, a testament to his sharp intellect. Despite the many hardships he endured, he was equally remembered for his humor, earning the title of “the funniest person at any gathering” with his quick wit and infectious laughter.

Patrick is survived by his beloved children:

• Dr. Michael C. Lawrence, Ph.D., and wife, Carrie, of Frisco, Texas

• Dianna Lawrence Gregg and husband, Tyler, of San Diego, California

• Nicolas Lawrence of San Diego, California

• Jesse Lawrence, Adam Lawrence, and Eva Lawrence of Tumacacori, Arizona.

He is also survived by Grace Barbara Lawrence, the mother of Michael, Dianna, and Nicolas, as well as six cherished grandchildren: Madison, Ashton, Jake, Kyan Lawrence; and Zayden and Skyler Gregg.

Patrick leaves behind 11 of his 14 siblings:

• Dr. Michael L. Lawrence, Ph.D., and wife, Susan, of Aledo, Texas

• Maureen Lawrence Shupp and husband, Mike, of Orange, Texas

• Roger Lawrence and wife, Sherree, of Westcliffe, Colorado

• Eileen Lawrence Romano of Orange, Texas

• Christal Lawrence Finck and husband, Phil, of Truro, Iowa

• Darlene Lawrence Brister and husband, Will Jaques, of West Des Moines, Iowa

• Marian Lawrence Kinchen and husband, Stanley, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana

• Theresa Lawrence of Porter, Texas

• Kevin Lawrence and wife, Claudia, of Pflugerville, Texas

• Maribeth Lawrence Ray and husband, Mitts, of Round Rock, Texas

• C.B. Lawrence and wife, Leanna, of Magnolia, Texas

Patrick was preceded in death by his parents and three brothers: Dr. Darrell Lawrence, Timothy Lawrence, and Stephen Lawrence.

Patrick’s legacy of faith, courage, and love will live on in the hearts of all who knew him. He was a true servant of God, a healer, and a steadfast source of light in our lives. He will be profoundly missed.

There will be a Memorial Mass for Patrick on Saturday, December 14, 2024, at St. Mary Catholic Church in Orange, Texas. Officiating will be Father Anthony Palose. The family will speak from 9:30 am until the Mass begins at 10:00 am.

Patrick will be laid to rest with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia alongside his fellow soldiers. May he rest in eternal peace.