James Bridges Lawrence III

James Bridges Lawrence, III, also known as JB, Jim, PawPaw and Doc, entered eternal rest on December 17, 2025.

He was born in Lauderdale County, Tennessee in February 1937 to James and Mary Lawrence. After his service in the U.S. Army, JB settled in the Washington D.C. area and married Rose Ann Dater in 1960. They lived in Silver Spring, Maryland for many years. With Rose Ann’s, loving support, he enjoyed a long successful career as a real estate broker and investor and served as a manager and mentor to many. They raised three sons and retired in Ocean Pines, Maryland. JB enjoyed fishing with the Angler’s club, playing golf with his buddies, and most of all, cheering on his grandchildren at their sporting events. He lit up when talking about his family’s accomplishments.

His sons and grandchildren have fond memories of fishing and crabbing with him on the Chesapeake Bay. These shared moments were a great opportunity for JB to impart his life wisdom and joke around.

With JB, wisdom was abundant. Whether helping a family find the perfect first house, or a young entrepreneur find the courage and confidence to start their own business, his guidance was warmly accepted, and usually followed.

JB had a knack for making friends wherever he went. He laughed and joked with everyone he met. His laughter and loving spirit brightened the lives of all who knew him.

JB is survived by his loving wife of 65 years, Rose Ann Lawrence, their three sons, eight grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren. Barry and Lisa Lawrence and their children Kelly (and husband Jacob) and son Grayson Spencer, Lindsay (and husband Damian) and son Miles Malagari, Don and Susan Lawrence and their children Joseph and Christine, and Rod and Lisa Lawrence and their sons, Jack (and wife Karoline) Ryan, Carter, and Tyler Lawrence.

JB was a fun-loving and caring father, grandfather and great-grandfather who will be fondly remembered and deeply missed.

A celebration of JB’s life will be held in the spring, details forthcoming.