Miriam Ward Lawrence, born September 1, 1924, in Chowan County, North Carolina, passed away peacefully on March 22, 2026, in Suffolk, Virginia, at the age of 101.

Miriam was a dedicated professional who devoted over 40 years of her life to the insurance industry as an esteemed insurance agent. After her retirement, she continued to touch lives and spread joy as a greeter at Wal-Mart for an additional 20 years. Her warm smile and welcoming presence were cherished by all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

She was a longtime and faithful member of First Baptist Church and the Senior Ladies Sunday School Class and attributed all of her joys and triumphs to her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. She had a passion for helping others and dedicating time to family.

Miriam was preceded in death by her beloved parents, Noah Robert Ward and Martha Ann "Annie" Byrum Ward; her husband, Douglas L. Lawrence, Sr.; her son, Douglas L. Lawrence, Jr. and his wife Carolyn; and her sisters, Madeline Wagner, Florine Ellis, and Frances Hill.  Her faith was unwavering through these losses and the loss of her home in the Suffolk tornado in 2008.

She leaves behind a loving family, including her daughter, Gail L. Kelly and husband Tommy; her grandchildren, Douglas L. Lawrence, III and wife Gina, Mahlon B. Lawrence and wife Dawn, Thomas V. Kelly and fiancee Liz, and Caroline M. Kelly; great-grandchildren, Heather Fritzel and husband Chris, Whitney Lawrence, Courtney Murphy and husband Brennan, and Lindsey Lawrence; and great-great-grandchildren, Riley Murphy and Evelyn Murphy. Miriam is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews who will fondly remember her kindness.

A funeral service to honor Miriam's life will be held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at 2 p.m. at Parr Funeral Home & Crematory, with Rev. Dr. Thurman Hayes officiating. Burial will follow at Cedar Hill Cemetery. Friends may join the family for a time of visitation an hour prior to the service from 1-1:45 p.m. at the funeral home. Condolences may be registered online at www.parrfuneralhome.com.