Lawrence James Wise passed away peacefully in his residence on September 30, 2024. He was the second born son to Elton Wise and Blanche Core Wise on September 16, 1936. His life reflected simplicity, humility, and unwavering faith.

Lawrence’s educational journey began in the Worcester County Public School System, where he matriculated through high school. He had a fervent desire to serve in the United States Military and always showed his utmost respect to those who had the privilege to serve. Lawrence accepted Jesus Christ at a young age. He was a devoted member of First Corinthians Holiness, New Macedonia Baptist Churches, both of Pocomoke, Maryland; Saint John Independent Church of Messongo, Virginia; and most recently, Living Word Community Church in Parksley, Virginia. Lawrence was ordained as a deacon at New Macedonia Baptist and remained faithful in the diaconate ministry until his passing.

Lawrence was employed at Golden Pride Poultry in Stockton, Maryland for several years before becoming a custodian at Salisbury University. He served there for 27 years until his retirement. In 1977, Lawrence married the late Julia Copes and became a beloved stepfather to Julian White (deceased), Rudell White, and Loisisha White Redding. He dedicated himself to raising them in an atmosphere of love, care, and respect.

Lawrence loved to sing and joined the gospel group, the Pilgrim Five. He delighted New Macedonia with his high-pitched voice in a Christmas favorite, Silent Night. It was this melodious tune that captured the attention of his bride to be. Lawrence married Brenda Sessoms of Nassawadox, Virginia, on May 11, 2004. Their union was filled with activities centered around the church, family, and social events.

Lawrence started each day with prayer and his favorite scripture, Psalm 121. He was an avid watcher of classic Westerns. He could be found in his recliner with a remote, perusing the channels for the next Western show or a sports event. Lawrence enjoyed visiting churches and eateries along the Eastern Shore of Maryland and Virginia with his “Bren-Bren.” His signature smile welcomed and warmed the hearts of those he greeted. Lawrence was a man of few words, but certainly rich in character, loving and lovable, and deeply rooted in faith. His contentment with life was so evident when he patted his hands, pointed heavenward, and smiled with a big thumbs up.

Lawrence was predeceased by five sisters: Katherine Schoolfield, Laurene Fletcher, Ruth Mills, Mabel Wise and Marlene Wise; three brothers: Bradford Wise, John Wise and Albert Wise.

Lawrence leaves to cherish his legacy of love: wife, Brenda Sessoms Wise; bonus children, Isha White Redding, Rudell White, Milton ‘Junie’ Health (Yvette), and Taesha Mapp; several grandchildren, great-grandchildren, nieces and nephews, and his beloved dog, Bella.