Samuel Lawrence Jr.

Samuel Lawrence Jr., a devoted soldier, beloved husband, cherished father, and pillar of his community, entered eternal rest at his home in Columbia,SC. Thursday, February 13, at the age of 80. Born on June 25, 1944, in Charleston, South Carolina, to the late Samuel Lawrence Sr. and Lillian Reid-Lawrence. Samuel was a man of deep integrity, unwavering commitment, and boundless generosity. His early years were shaped by a strong sense of duty and perseverance, values that carried him through a life of remarkable achievement and service. A proud graduate of the historic Burke High School, Samuel excelled both academically and athletically as a member of the Burke Football team. He briefly attended Shaw College before answering the call of his nation, enlisting in the U.S. Army in 1963. He would later graduate with Bachelor’s and Master’s degree from Troy State University. Over the course of nearly thirty years, he served with honor and distinction, rising to the esteemed rank of Command Sergeant Major before his retirement in 1992 at Fort Benning, Georgia. He served in numerous positions including as a US Advisor in several countries and ROTC instructor at Morgan State University. His service reflected not only his dedication to country but also a deep respect for the legacy of his ancestors who had served before him. In 1973, Samuel found his lifelong partner in Margaret L. Barnes Suber, whom he married August 4, 1973 at Second Nazareth Baptist Church in Columbia. Their union spanned over fifty-one years, a testament to their enduring love and partnership. Following his military career, Samuel embarked on a second act of service and leadership, becoming a regional manager for R.L. Jordan Oil Company. Over two decades, he garnered numerous awards for excellence, particularly for his management of the Farrow Rd. Hot Spot location. His dedication to excellence was not confined to his career; it was evident in every aspect of his life. A man of many passions, Samuel was a true modern Renaissance man. He found joy in reading, the nurturing of gardening, the thrill of hunting, and the creativity of pottery. His hands, which once held the weight of military command, also molded clay with precision and care—an expression of his multifaceted spirit. Beyond his personal interests, Samuel dedicated himself to uplifting others. He was a lifelong member of Mother Emanuel AME Church in Charleston, actively involved in mentoring and youth development through organizations such as Big Brothers Big Sisters and the Boys and Girls Club. A proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., and an ardent supporter of South Carolina State University Boosters, he embodied the principles of leadership, service, and brotherhood. Samuel’s legacy lives on in those he leaves behind: his devoted wife, Margaret; his beloved son, Patwin Lawrence; his brother, Arthur Lawrence; his sister, Barbara Lawrence; Sister-in-law, Francis Allen; Brother-in-Law, Marvin Barnes; his cherished aunt, Verlene Meekins; his nephews Arthur and Pedro Jerome; his niece Lesley; and a multitude of grand-nephews, grand-nieces, cousins, relatives, and dear friends. He is reunited in eternity with his parents, Samuel and Lillian, and his sisters, Lorraine and Joyce Lawrence. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made in Samuel’s honor to Big Brothers Big Sisters or the Boys and Girls Club—organizations that reflect his lifelong commitment to mentorship and community enrichment. Samuel Lawrence Jr. was a man who led with strength, lived with passion, and loved with an open heart. His memory will be carried forward by all who were fortunate enough to know him, and his legacy of service and kindness will endure for generations to come. Rest in power, Command Sergeant Major. Your watch is complete.

Samuel Lawrence Jr.

June 25, 1944 - February 13, 2025