Gerald F. Lawrence, 76, passed away unexpectedly on Thursday, January 17, 2019 in Port Orange, FL. Jerry was born in Rockville, MD to Jim and Helen Lawrence. He spent his school years there and later joined the Army Reserves in 1960 spending 4 years in active duty. He moved to the Daytona Beach area in 1965, where he raced cars and owned several service stations before walking into an Arthur Murrays and setting the course for a long career as an esteemed ballroom dance instructor, coach and Pro-Am competitor. Jerry opened Lawrence Dance Studio in Holly Hill in 1976 where he proudly taught Daytona’s finest how to glide across the dance floor. He delighted in hosting and traveling worldwide to over 100 dance competitions with his students where he attained numerous top teacher awards. With his many years of experience and his gift for the art of dancing he was a revered mentor to many. Jerry was also a single digit handicap golfer who had a true passion for the sport. He could often be found early in the mornings, even in freezing weather, enjoying playing 18 holes at Daytona Beach Golf Club where he was named MGA Champion in 2010 and also proudly made three holes-in-one.
Jerry was predeceased by his parents, his brother Jimmy, his sister Sandra, and niece Cathy. He is survived by his brother Bill Lawrence (Beverly), Ormond Beach; daughters Melissa Lawrence, New Smyrna, Elizabeth Rafferty, Palm Coast, Tricia Lawrence, Ormond Beach; grandchildren Matthew (Kandice), Brett, and Serena; great-grandchildren, Logan and Charlee; and very special devoted friend MJ Slapski, along with many beloved aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces, and nephews.
A memorial service will be held on Saturday, January 26th at 11:00 at Dale Woodward Funeral Home 167 Ridgewood Ave. Holly Hill. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to your local hospice.