Marilyn Edris Lawrence died in her home on Friday, February 13, 2026, at the age of 93. She was born on January 4, 1933, in Dunkirk, New York, to Elias Gingrich Edris and Miriam Miller Edris. Marilyn graduated from Newark High School in 1951. She went on to attend The Ohio State University, graduating in 1955 with a degree in Occupational Therapy. On October 29, 1955, she married David Lawrence in Corpus Christi, Texas. After the birth of their first daughter in 1957, Marilyn devoted the next 17 years to raising their four children. A proud Navy wife, she supported her husband through 24 years of service and 18 duty stations. Following Dave’s retirement as a Lieutenant Commander, the family settled in Gulf Breeze, Florida.

In 1974, Marilyn returned to the workforce, first serving as a librarian at the West Florida Regional Library and later as an Activities Director for seniors in several Pensacola nursing facilities. In 1997, she returned to her vocation as an occupational therapist, serving with joy until her 80th birthday in 2013.

Marilyn loved Jesus, her family, the Ohio State Buckeyes, and the many pets she cared for throughout her life. She was a faithful and active church member, serving in numerous roles including youth and young adult ministry, missions, and community service. She also founded a clowning ministry, where she became affectionately known as “JJ.”

She is survived by her children, Julia Lawrence Horne, Elizabeth Ann Smith, and David Edris Lawrence; 10 grandchildren; and 15 great-grandchildren.

She is preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Richard J. Edris; her daughter, Jennifer Lawrence; her husband, Dave; and her sister-in-law, Nancy Haines Edris.

Marilyn will be laid to rest with her husband and daughter Jennifer at Barrancas National Cemetery NAS Pensacola.

A memorial service will be held at 11:00 am on Friday, February 20, 2026, at First Presbyterian Church in Downtown Pensacola.

In lieu of flowers, gifts may be given to the Loaves and Fishes, 257 E Lee St A, Pensacola, FL 32503 (850) 438-7616

Psalm 23:1,4 “The Lord is my Shepherd, I shall not want… even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil.”