Lawrence Joseph Edwards, affectionately known as “LJ”, was born on August 19, 1940 to Elnora Edwards in Selma, Alabama. He received his formal education in the Selma, Alabama school district. LJ moved to Staten Island, NY with his family in 1964. He later met Arline Beverly Crute and they were united in marriage. LJ was employed by Sun Chemical Corporation. He retired in 1992. LJ loved God and faithfully attended First Central Baptist Church in Staten Island, New York. He loved studying the Word and attending Sunday school. LJ was a man of few words but loving imparted wisdom when he spoke. He loved his family and adored his community. He was a faithful member of the Mariner’s Harbor’s Tenant Associate in Staten Island. Lawrence leaves to cherish his precious memories, his wife Deacon Arline B. Edwards, five children: Sharon James (Joseph), Spartanburg, SC, Brian Edwards, Boiling Spring, SC, Stanley Edwards, Selma, AL; David Crute, Staten Island NY, Yvette Gory, Selma, AL; nine grandchildren: Kendra, Tyshawn M., Ashley, Jermel, Tyshawn E., Javarious, Brandon, Kiana, Malachi; one great grandchild: Jamaya; two sisters, Clara Marshall and Gertrude Hinton, both from Rice, VA; four brothers: Reverend Lorenzo Edwards, Sr., Detroit, MI, Freddie Edwards (Shelly), Leonard Edwards (Belinda), Richard Edwards (Mary), all of Staten Island, NY, a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends. Preceding him in death was his mother Elnora Edwards and three brothers Eddie, George (also known as Pete) and Leroy. —Lovingly submitted by the Family