Raymond E. Lawrence

Raymond E. Lawrence, 95, died at 5:55 a.m. Tuesday, February 19, 2013 at Alton Memorial Hospital. He was born September 22, 1917 in Springfield, IL. Mr. Lawrence attended Routt Catholic High School in Jacksonville, IL where he played football, basketball, and baseball. He later played professional baseball for the Pittsburg Pirates. During WWII he served with the U.S. Marine Corps. He worked on B-25 Bombers on Green Island. In 1982, he retired from Owens-Illinois Glass in Godfrey as a machinist. He married the former Betty Lochridge. She preceded him in death. Surviving is a son, Joseph Lawrence of Godfrey, four grandchildren, Michelle Anderson (David) of Wood River, Tabitha Meuth of Godfrey, Anna Cadle (David) of Shipman, and Joanna Lawrence of Godfrey, and three great grandchildren, Jordan and Noah Anderson and Mason Meuth. He was a well loved father and grandfather. He was preceded in death by a son, Raymond E. Lawrence Jr. Visitation will be from 9:30 a.m. until time of funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Friday, February 22, 2013 at Gent Funeral Home in Alton. Reverend Roy Rhodes will officiate. Burial will be at Valhalla Memorial Park in Godfrey with military honors by the East Alton American Legion. Memorials may be made to Routt Catholic High School, 500 E. College Ave., Jacksonville, IL 63650. Online guestbook and information may be found at www.gentfuneralhome.com