JOSEPH LAWRENCE

ST. AUGUSTINE, Fla. - Joseph "Curtis" Lawrence, 58, was a free-spirited soul who cared deeply for those near him. Born and raised in Sumter, he spent most of his time between his homes in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, and Otto, North Carolina. After a long battle with alcoholism, he died tragically on Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, at Halifax Health Medical Center in Daytona Beach, Florida.

Curtis took great joy in his three children and six beautiful grandchildren. Despite his long struggle with addiction, he managed to maintain sobriety while charged with their care. Those who knew him looked past his demons and loved him for the kind and gentle soul he was.

Curtis was predeceased by his brother, William Marion Lawrence; his sister, Sarah June Lawrence; and his parents, William Coke Lawrence and Henrietta Curtis Lawrence.

Curtis is survived by his children, Rachelle Breanne Sterling (Jamie) of Palm City, Florida, Ryan Curtis Lawrence (Amanda) of St. Augustine and Jamey Edward Spires (Savannah) of Jedburg; and his grandchildren, Sailor Sterling, Hayley and Lyla Lawrence and Jaylyn, Landon and Sadie Spires.

At Curtis' request no services will be held, only a celebration of life at a date to be announced.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be sent to Alcoholics Anonymous or an addiction charity of your choice.

St. Johns Family Funeral Home of St. Augustine is in charge of arrangements.