Erma Jean Lawrence passed away Sunday, September 17, 2006, at the age of 80.
She was the founding executive director of Northside Preservation Commission, a visionary leader and tireless advocate for civil rights, economic empowerment and fair housing for all.
For over 30 years she pioneered innovative housing development and home-buyer training programs in the city of St. Louis, especially the West End, and provided job skill training for youth and adults. She was a generous, committed woman of God who loved her family, community and her church.
She was the beloved wife of the late Josiah Lawrence; mother of Ronald Lawrence, Gloristene Morrow, Imogene Lawrence, Michelle, and Valerie Njia (Lawrence-Porter), stepson James Lawrence of Chicago, and stepdaughter Mary Louise Williams of Indianapolis; dear sister to Sheila Speaker Livingston and Willie Mae Mitchell, as well as Almeda Roberson, James Roberson, Homer Jones, Herbert Robertson, and Shirley Hull, who proceeded her in death; devoted grandmother to Ronald Lawrence Jr., Kim Morrow, James Lawrence, Tracey Morrow, Teresa Lawrence, Keith Lawrence, Tiffany Chisese, Gloria Morrow, Tommie Morrow, Ayanna Lawrence Porter; great grandmother of 13, aunt, great-aunt, loyal cousin and friend.
Visitation is today, Thursday, September 21, 2006, 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Granberry Mortuary, 8806 Jennings Station Rd. Homegoing Service at New Cote Brilliante Church of God, 6195 Washington at Skinker (727-3550), on Friday, September 22 at 11 a.m. Interment at Lake Charles Memorial Park. Repass immediately following at New Cote Brilliante.