James William Lawrence, 82, 1872 Marietta, died Thursday, Aug. 28, 1997, at his home.

He was born July 24, 1915, in Cape Girardeau, son of Alfred and Mary McCartney Lawrence. He and Gladys Kielhofner were married July 13, 1946, at Chaffee.

Lawrence worked at Florsheim Shoe Co. 25 years, and was a clerk with U.S. Postal Service 23 years, retiring in 1980.

He was a graduate of Central High School. He was a radio repairman with the U.S. Army Air Corps during World War II. He was a member of St. Vincent's Catholic Church and American Legion Post 63.

Survivors include his wife; a son, James Lawrence of Cape Girardeau; two daughters, Linda Shaffar of Cape Girardeau, Judy Smith of Dexter; a sister, Gertrude Miget of Olathe, Kan.; seven grandchildren; and a great-grandchild.

He was preceded in death by two brothers and a sister.

Friends may call at Ford and Sons Mt. Auburn Chapel from 4-8 p.m. today. Parish prayers will be at 7.

Funeral Mass will be at 10 a.m. Saturday at St. Vincent's Church, with the Rev. Milton Ryan officiating. Burial will be in St. Mary's Cemetery.