Edward Louis Lawrence, 88, of North Vernon, passed away on Wednesday, March 8, 2017, at Columbus Regional Hospital.

Born August 18, 1928, in Orlando, Florida, Louis was the son of Jesse and Sarah (Cowan) Lawrence. He married Betty Joan Cook on September 1, 1956. She survives.

Louis owned Lawrence Construction Company, which developed several subdivisions around Jennings County. He was the supply superintendent at IKEC in Madison. He also lived and worked in Turkey for ten years where he was a contractor for Tumpane Co. for the U.S. Air Force. He was a member of the Masonic Lodge, Scottish Rite, and Rolling Hills Shrine Club. He had formerly been president of the Rolling Hills Shrine Club. He enjoyed his trade of home building and development, photography and flying.

Survivors include his wife, Betty; a son, Lewis (Judy) Lawrence of Safety Harbor, FL; a daughter, Kimberly Curry of Scipio; and two grandchildren, Lynna (Tim) Keyes of San Antonio, TX, and Jensen Louis Lawrence of Safety Harbor, FL.

He was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Norine Johnson; and two brothers, Norman and James Lawrence.

Memorials may be made through the funeral home to Shriners Hospital for Children.

There will be a graveside service at a later date.