James Lawrence, age 76, of Portage, passed away Friday, July 15, 2016. He was born on February 9, 1940 to the late Henry Elzie and Mable (nee Chessor) Lawrence. He was retired from US Steel where he worked as a welder. James was a member of the Church of God of Prophecy in Portage, where he was a men's fellowship leader. He loved to ride his motorcycle and was a great mechanic. James will be remembered as a jokester who adored his family.

James is survived by his loving wife, Ellen Lawrence, of 56 years; son, Don (Cindy) Lawrence; daughters, Lesa (Louis) Garcia, Melissa (Barney Corder) Lawrence, Meredith Lawrence; brothers, Hobart Lawrence, Ernest (Sandy) Lawrence; sisters in law, Marie Lawrence, Shirley Lawrence; grandchildren, Jacob Lawrence, Samantha Whitledge, Mark Needham, Jack Overturf, Kati Lowe, Megan Lowe, Kaylyn Ritz, Rayna Meeks, Jessica Lawrence, Matthew Pope, Michael Pope, Maddison Lawrence; 6 great grandchildren; many nieces and nephews; and his beloved pet, Parris.

He was preceded in death by his parents; brothers, Tom Lawrence, JB Lawrence, Louis Lawrence, and Henry Eugene Lawrence.

A funeral service for James will take place Tuesday, July 19, 2016 at 7 pm at Rees Funeral Home, Olson Chapel, 5341 Central Avenue, Portage 46368 with Pastor Richard Ledford and Assistant Pastor Dallas Fields officiating. Cremation will follow. Visitation will be held Tuesday, July 19, 2016 from 2:00 pm until the time of service at the funeral home. For more information, please call 219-762-3013. Online Condolences may be shared with the family at www.reesfuneralhomes.com.