Mary Viola (Blake) Lawrence

Mary Lawrence, 84, of Staten Island, NY, passed away on March 9th surrounded by her loved ones.

Mary was born in Valdosta, Georgia in 1938, then went on to live in Brooklyn, NY till she later moved to Staten Island around 1970.

She was married to her late husband, Herman Lawrence, in 1972 and is survived by her six children, Shirley Mae Blake, Debra Toney, Darrell Blake, Harold Blake, Carnell Blake and Dale Britt. Mary is also survived by her 20 grandchildren, 22 great-grandchildren and 27 great-great-grandchildren. 

Mary Lawrence was a mother to many and was a blessing to all who knew her. She was funny, loving, thoughtful, cared for her family selflessly and was very outspoken when she needed to be. Most importantly, she was a prayer warrior.

She was a faithful member of Pentecostal Tabernacle, Staten Island, NY and enjoyed reading her Bible. Her testimonies always expressed her love for God and on many occasions, told the congregation that everyone should have a testimony. She often  encouraged all to stand and talk about what God had done for them.