Allen Lee Lawrence

September 28, 1929 - November 8, 2016

Allen Lee Lawrence passed peacefully from this world and went to be with his Lord and Savior on Tuesday, November 8, 2016. Son of the late Vena Lee and Robert Allen Lawrence of the New Hill Community near Apex, Allen is preceded in death by his sister Etta Morton. Allen is survived by his loving and devoted wife of 64 years Mary Helen Olinger Lawrence; son Ronald Allen Lawrence and wife Cindy of Raleigh, daughter Nancy Lawrence Cornelio and husband Chuck of Greensboro; grandchildren Jake Wood and wife Brandi, Erika Lawrence and Fiancé Blake Sloan; great-granddaughter Breanna Wood; niece Cindy Hedden and husband Steve of Florida. Allen graduated from Apex High School. He attended Gardner Webb College, where he played football. Allen proudly served in the Army during the Korean War in the 504th MP Division. Following his years in the service, Allen returned to Apex to work for the Apex Police Department. Allen was quite the entrepreneur, he owned several businesses over the years such as several men’s clothing stores throughout North Carolina and an Allied Van Lines Moving Company in Morehead City, NC. Allen had a deep love for fishing and the open waters. Allen and Helen lived in Atlantic Beach for 10 years where he could indulge in his passion every day. They returned to Apex in 1988. Allen was a true “Jack-of-all-trades”. Anyone that had the pleasure of knowing him knew there wasn’t much he couldn’t do. Along with fishing, he enjoyed working in his garden and woodworking. His hands and mind were always busy. But one of his greatest loves and passions was helping others. He found great pleasure and joy in doing for others. Allen’s love and commitment to his wife, family and faith was whole-hearted and unwavering. He was dedicated to his church, Apex Baptist Church, which he and Helen attended for over 60 years and to his God. His faith never wavered. Helen, Ronnie and Nancy would like to thank all those faithful family and friends who have supported the family with calls, visits, acts of kindness and prayers. This meant more to Allen than words could ever express. To celebrate his life, a memorial service will be held at Apex Baptist Church, 110 South Salem Street, Apex, North Carolina on Saturday, November 12, 2016 at 11:00 am. Per Allen’s wishes, the celebration will continue after the service with a barbecue luncheon and visitation in the church’s fellowship hall. The family request in lieu of flowers, memorials should be made to the Apex Baptist Church Senior Programs or the Mabopane Foundation, 3913 Hwy 64W, Apex, NC 27523. Online condolences may be made to www.wakefuneral.com