Joseph John Lawrence

Joseph John Lawrence, affectionately known as “JJ,” passed away peacefully on Sunday, July 13, 2025, at the age of 94. A lifelong resident of Biloxi, Mississippi, JJ was known for his warm spirit, his deep community roots, and his love for golf.

JJ graduated from Gulf Coast Military Academy in 1948 and earned his degree from the University of Mississippi in 1952. While at Ole Miss, he was an Army ROTC cadet, a proud member of Phi Kappa Psi Fraternity, and captain of the university’s golf team, where he lettered all four years. He went on to serve his country and was honorably discharged from the U.S. Army in 1954.

Returning home to the Mississippi Gulf Coast, JJ became the proprietor of Lawrence’s clothing stores in Biloxi and Gulfport, continuing a family legacy in retail and supporting the local business community through his involvement with the Chamber of Commerce.

A passionate golfer, JJ was a fixture at Sunkist Country Club, where he served on the board and the Greens Committee and proudly recorded multiple holes-in-one. He was a devoted member of Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church.

JJ was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gayle Lee Lawrence, and his parents, Margaret Mavar Lawrence and Joseph Vincent Lawrence.

He is survived by his loving daughters, Kymble Lawrence (Brad) McCoy and Robyn Lawrence (John) Gedney; his brother Gregory (Kathleen) Lawrence; his grandchildren John Ryan Gedney, Lee Gedney (Neil) Kinnebrew, Brennan Lawrence Gedney, Connor Joseph McCoy, Caleb Rhys McCoy, and Colton Lawrence McCoy; and his great-grandchildren Archie Lawrence Kinnebrew and Simon Lee Kinnebrew.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, July 26, 2025, at Our Lady of Fatima in Biloxi, where friends may visit starting at 10:00 a.m. Interment will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Our Lady of Fatima Catholic Church in Biloxi.

Riemann Family Funeral Home, Gulfport, is honored to serve the Lawrence family.