Tommy W. “Coach” Lawrence, 88, of Bellefontaine and formerly of West Mansfield, passed away peacefully on Monday, February 5, 2024 at the Homestead of Logan Acres.
A veteran of the U.S. Army, he proudly served his country during the Korean War. He was a longtime teacher and basketball coach at Benjamin Logan High School, and was elected into the Ohio High School Basketball Coaches Hall of fame. He was also a member of the West Mansfield United Methodist Church, formerly serving as an elder.
Born January 21, 1936 in Welch, WV, he was the son of the late Henry and Lottie (Bowman) Lawrence. On March 20, 1959 he married his wife of over 46 years, Barbara “Bobbi” Zinn, and she preceded him in death on April 23, 2005. In addition to his wife and parents, he was also preceded in death by a brother, Ralph Lawrence and his sisters, Nancy Scott, Shirley Stone and Peggy Johnson.
He is survived by his son, Stanley Lawrence of Los Altos, CA and 2 grandchildren, Quentin and Natalie Lawrence.
Services to celebrate Tommy’s life will be held at 12:00 P.M. Saturday, February 10, 2024 at the West Mansfield Global Methodist Church 212 E. Center St. West Mansfield, with Dr. Jason Robson and Pastor John Rozewicz officiating. Burial will follow next to his wife at the Greenlawn Cemetery. Friends may call prior to the service on Saturday beginning at 10:00 A.M. at the church. Memorial contributions can be made to the West Mansfield Global Methodist Church. Arrangements are being handled by Wilson Funeral Home, Schnurrenberger Chapel 222 W. Center St. West Mansfield. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.wilsonfuneralhomesinc.com