Lawrence Harper, 72, of Ozark, Alabama, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2025 surrounded by loved ones.

Born on November 17, 1952, Lawrence dedicated his life to service, both in the military and in the law enforcement community. He proudly served in the United States Army for 20 years, achieving the rank of Sergeant and serving in the Iraqi War. After several duty stations, he finally retired at Fort Stewart, Georgia in 1992. Lawrence also served as a Georgia State Correctional Officer for 21 and a half years. He worked at Georgia State Prison the whole time after graduating from the training program. Lawrence was able to retire again in 1995 for good.

Lawrence was survived by his wife of 48 years, Mechthilde (Meckey); his daughters Natascha Jones and Carmen Harper; son in law Eric Jones; and his grandchildren Micah Jones, Aria Jones, and Cameron Brown. He is also survived by his brothers Benjamin Harper, Stevie Harper, and Clifford Harper; his sister Deborah Harper Thornton; as well as aunts, uncles, and cousins that he cherished