George W. Lawrence

On October 16, 2026, after fulfilling God’s purpose for his life on earth, the angels were sent to bring George W. Lawrence home to his eternal rest. He was 85.

George was born in Biloxi, where he remained a lifelong resident. He was of the Catholic faith and a longtime member of St. Michael Catholic Church. George devoted numerous years to serving as finance chairman and co-chairman of the annual Biloxi Shrimp Blessing of the Fleet. The tabernacle in the church today was donated by George in 2023 in memory of his wife, Georgia Kuljis Lawrence.

He graduated from Notre Dame High School in 1959 and served in the National Guard. His professional career spanned more than 50 years as a dedicated pharmaceutical salesman.

For 24 years, George was a member of the Biloxi City Council. He currently is the longest-serving councilmember in Biloxi history. In 1985 he was awarded a certificate of appreciation in recognition of outstanding contributions to the quality of life in the community. George was presented the Key to the City in June 2025. In May 2026, he was honored to have the Point Cadet Pavilion renamed the George Lawrence Pavilion.

He also played a vital role in the building of the current Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum, honoring the heritage of the fishermen and families who built the Gulf Coast.

George is remembered by many for his dedication as president of the Biloxi Girls Softball League. His commitment to the future of Biloxi’s youth extended to his advocacy for Catholic education. He was instrumental in the installation of the first air-conditioning system at Nativity B.V.M. Elementary School. George is a past president of Nativity B.V.M. Elementary PTA, Mercy Cross High School Booster Club and MCSHAND, Inc. He helped establish MCSHAND, which raised more than one million dollars for Catholic education. George also raised more money than any other individual for the Biloxi Shrimp Bowl, directly supporting the local Doll and Toy Fund. He was a member of the Ohr O’Keefe Museum of Art and Biloxi Bay Chamber. George was a very proud and dedicated 3rd degree member of the Biloxi Knights of Columbus, Council #1244.

George greatly enjoyed Mardi Gras, and all were welcome to his annual open house. He loved life and lived it fully, but above all his accomplishments, his greatest joy was being with his family. His immense love for his wife, daughters, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren was undeniable.

He will be remembered for his legacy of unconditional love, laughter, larger than life personality with an even larger smile and of course … DANCING!

George was preceded in death by his wife, Georgia Kuljis Lawrence; his parents, Anthony Lawrence, Sr., and Teresa (Calamari) Lawrence; his brothers, Henry (Sr.), and Frances Lawrence; and his son-in-law, Dennis Meins.

He is survived by his three daughters, Gina (Dannie) Skrmetta, Gwyn (Boots) Diaz, and Gela Meins; five grandchildren, James and Danielle Skrmetta and Josh (Claire), Jacob, and Justin Diaz; three great-grandchildren, Ella James, Georgia, and Wallace Diaz; his brother, Anthony Lawrence, Jr.; his sister, Teresa Thompson; and numerous nieces, nephews, and other relatives.

A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Thursday, October 22, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Michael Catholic Church. Visitation from 10:00-11:00, with Interment at the Biloxi City Cemetery. A celebration of George’s life will follow at the Maritime & Seafood Industry Museum.

Bradford-O'Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of George W. Lawrence.