Gaylord James Lawrence

Gaylord “Gay” James Lawrence, 101, passed away on Sunday, April 26, 2026, at his home in rural Brook, Indiana. Born in Brook, Indiana, on August 25, 1924, he was the son of Roy Esson Lawrence and Mellie V. Little. A lifelong resident of Brook, Gaylord was a WWII veteran. He served as a radio operator on mine sweeps USS Hazard and USS Execute from January 9, 1945, to July 15, 1946.

On April 28, 1946, he married the love of his life, Ardis Reed. They spent 77 years together until her death in 2023. He is survived by his children, David Lawrence (wife, Mary Catherine), Marilyn Ignatowicz (husband, Mike, deceased), Robert “Bob” Lawrence (wife, Maria), and Linda Weiss (husband, Dana); daughter-in-law, Peg Lawrence; 10 grandchildren; and 14 great-grandchildren. He was preceded in death by his son, John "Jack" Lawrence; a son lost at birth; and his great-granddaughter, Hazel Smart.

Gay’s passion was being a farmer, a love that he passed on to his son, Jack; grandson, Seth; and great-grandson, Ryan. He loved working outdoors and still mowed with his John Deere riding mower until the age of 99. He was a bus driver at South Newton High School for many years.

Gay was a devout Christian who served in various roles through the years at the United Methodist Church in Brook. He was a role model to many, sharing his faith in God with anyone who might need lifting up. He loved a good joke and would often have one to tell. He loved his God, his family, and his country. He loved people and showed a true interest in those he met.

He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He will truly be missed by many, but is surely celebrating in heaven with those who have gone before him.

Visitation for Gay will be held at Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Home ~ Brook Chapel on Saturday, May 2, 2026, from 6 - 8 PM (CT). The funeral service will take place at the First Christian Church in Brook the following day, Sunday, May 3, 2026, starting at 1:30 PM (CT). Gay will be buried at Riverside Cemetery. The committal service and military honors will be held on Monday, May 4, 2026, beginning at 9 AM (CT).

Gay's care has been entrusted to Gerts, Windler & Keller Funeral Home ~ Brook Chapel | 129 E Main St, Brook, IN 47922 | (219)275-6161 | KellerFH.com | Info@KellerFH.com