Earl “Butch” James Lawrence Jr.

BENTON – On June 22, 2026, Earl “Butch” James Lawrence, Jr. died peacefully surrounded by family. Days before his passing, Butch and Carol hosted guests in his hospital room. We must thank the hospital staff for their loving care of Butch and the rest of us. Thank you for letting us “raise the roof” a bit!

Butch was born at home in Fairfield, Maine, on March 13, 1942, to Mabel (Crockett) and Earl Lawrence, Sr. He was assisted into this world by his older sisters. The tale has always been Butch was the youngest of 16! Between his half-siblings, and nieces and nephews who were raised under the same roof, and his brothers and sisters who numbered many, it was a home full of love!—and kids.

Butch met his bride of 66 years, Carol Church, in Greenlaw’s Restaurant on Main Street in Fairfield. They were married Dec. 19, 1959. Butch and Carol raised two children, Roy Lawrence (wife Christina) of Benton and Lisa Letourneau (husband David) of Knox.

Butch worked in many types of jobs through the years; he could fix/build ANYTHING! His final/favorite job was as a maintenance man at RSU 3.

After his retirement he took time to find the Lord. He was enjoying attending services and Bible studies and was recently baptized into the Faith. Butch was “ready” to go. He raised his arms and asked Jesus to take him.

Butch leaves behind so many loved ones, it is impossible to name them all: many grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, brothers/sisters-in-law, nieces, nephews, and friends. His one remaining brother, William Lawrence, will perform the memorial service.

All services will be held at Second Baptist Church, 172 Water St., in Waterville. Visiting hours will be July 16, 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Memorial service will be July 17 at 10 a.m.