Joseph Nelson Lawrence

Rev. Joseph Nelson Lawrence passed peacefully into the presence of the Lord on November 30, 2025, surrounded by his family as they prayed and sang hymns over him. Born on June 16, 1941, Joe lived a life marked by faith, humility, and quiet strength. Though his stature was large, his spirit was gentle—soft-spoken, steady, and deeply loved by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He left a legacy of Pentecostal ministry and faith embraced by his family, attending The Sanctuary for thirty years. On June 6, 1964, Joe married his true love and lifelong companion, Beverly Taresa Jones. For over 61 years they patterned faithfulness and commitment to a Christ-centered marriage for all to observe. God blessed their union with three children, Michelle, Chris, and Nathan. Joe held Ministerial Credentials with the United Pentecostal Church International for 29 years and faithfully served the UPCI World Evangelism Center for eleven years until his retirement. A lifelong learner, he proudly completed his bachelor’s degree at the age of 63. His ministry was wide-reaching and impactful, as he was involved in jail ministry, served as ACTS program director, was the bible quizzing coordinator for the Indiana District, and held roles including Sunday school teacher, youth pastor, assistant pastor, and interim pastor. Wherever he served, he did so with dedication, compassion, and a heart for people. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, Richard and Freida Lawrence, and two brothers, Tim Lawrence (Sherry) and Dickie Lawrence. He is survived by his loving wife, Beverly Lawrence; his children, Michelle Graham (Scott), Chris Lawrence (Angel), and Nate Lawrence (Stacy); his grandchildren, Jeremy Graham, Jessica Powell (Braxton), Landon Lawrence (Blakli), Breann Smith (Justin), Myrekel Lawrence, and Brennon Lawrence; eight great-grandchildren, Emmy, Loxley, Britain, Landry, Ellington, Edelman, Eidris, and Oliver, all of whom brought him immense joy. He is also survived by one brother, Larry Lawrence (Peggy), and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and other friends and family. Rev. Joe Lawrence lived his life with unwavering faith, a servant’s heart, and a deep love for his family and the Kingdom of God. His legacy lives on in the countless lives he touched and the generations that follow him.

Joseph Nelson Lawrence

June 16, 1941 - November 30, 2025