Ernest "Ernie" Joseph Lawrence

Ernest (Ernie) Joseph Lawrence, beloved husband, father, and grandfather, passed away suddenly on March 26, 2024. He was born on September 17, 1953, in Oneida, NY, to Claude Joseph Lawrence and Ada Lawrence DeMauro.

Ernie is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Sandra Caldwell Lawrence, and their children Amanda (Christopher) Lawrence Schaus and Andrew (Tarah) Lawrence. He was a proud grandfather to Esme Adabeth Schaus, Gavyn Bryant Schaus, Santiago Lawrence Schaus, Olivia Gabrielle Herschell, and Benjamin David Lawrence.

Ernie will be remembered for his devotion to Christ, unwavering love for his family, and dedication as a teacher, coach, and mentor. He was a devoted husband, always supporting Sandy in every endeavor. As a father, he was a constant source of guidance and inspiration to Amanda and Andrew, instilling in them the values of compassion, hard work, and perseverance.

Ernie’s love for his grandchildren was immeasurable. He cherished every moment spent with Esme, Gavyn, Santiago, Olivia, and Benjamin, creating lasting memories that will be treasured by his family for generations to come.

In addition to his role as a loving family man, Ernie was a respected member of his community. He was a devoted member of the St. Isidore Parish Community (St. Joseph’s Church in Perry), a lay contemplative for the Abbey of the Genesee, and Perry Village Trustee for 3 years. Ernie taught many confirmation classes and took many 2nd-grade students on the Perry Underground Railroad tours, sharing his love for local history. He volunteered his time at Suzanne’s Comfort Care in Perry, NY, and spent day and night building and praying over thousands of rosaries as he walked the streets of Perry with his dog Higgs. Ernie’s dedication to his work as a teacher at Letchworth Central School for 30 years touched the lives of countless students, leaving a lasting impact on their education and personal growth. Ernie carried a profound love of music throughout his life and enriched the lives of so many others through his leading worship and performances of blues and folk with his son in venues around Western New York.

Ernie’s sudden departure has left a void in the hearts of all who knew him. He will be deeply missed but forever remembered for his kindness, generosity, and the love he shared with his family and friends.

A memorial service to celebrate Ernie’s life will be held at 10:00 am on April 27, 2024, at St. Isidore Parish Community (St. Joseph’s Church in Perry), 69 Leicester Street, Perry, NY 14530. Calling hours will be held at Eaton Watson Funeral Home at 98 S. Main Street, Perry, NY 14530 on April 26, 2024, from 3:00-7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers (he was allergic), the family kindly requests memorials to be made to St. Isidore Parish or Suzanne’s Comfort Care in Perry, NY, as Ernie was passionate about sharing Christ’s message.

May Ernest Joseph Lawrence rest in eternal peace, knowing that his legacy of faith and compassion will continue to inspire all those fortunate enough to have known him.