Walter Leoan "Leon" Lawrence was born on July 26, 1951, to Willie Lee Lawrence and Gloria Smith Lawrence in Okmulgee, Oklahoma. Leon grew up surrounded by family, community, and faith.

Leon was raised in the church and was a member of Cleaves Memorial C.M.E. Church during his early years before leaving to attend college. His spiritual foundation would remain an important part of his life.

Leon attended Okmulgee High School, graduating in 1970. While there, he was an outstanding athlete who played basketball and football, earning the respect of teammates and classmates alike. He also served the community as a lifeguard at the local community pool, helping ensure the safety of neighborhood families during the summer months.

Leon played All-state basketball and helped lead his team to several championships. He later attended Central State University in Edmond, Oklahoma, where he earned his Bachelors of Science degree and proudly graduated on May 12, 1976. During his time at Central State University, he became a lifetime member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc (Nupe), a brotherhood he remained proud of throughout his life. He served three years in the Navy National Guard and received an honorable discharge.

Leon went on to build a long and dedicated career, working for General Motors for over 30 years, where he was respected for his work ethics and commitment.

Leon met and married Marilyn Thatcher, and to this union two children were born: Walter Leoan Lawrence Jr. (Wally) and Marilyn Renee Lawrence ("Na Na"),

Later, Leon met and married Valarie, and to this union two sons were born: Joseph Lawrence and Shaun Michael Lawrence.

Leon was also blessed with twin sons, Donnell Smith and Lonnell Smith, born to Vanessa Glenn.

Leon had a deep love for music, which remained a meaningful part of his life. After moving to Midwest City, Oklahoma, he attended Greater Cleaves Church. Leon held a strong belief in God and remained steadfast in his faith until his health began to fail. His love for music and faith later led him to dedicate over 20 years to the GloryBound Gospel Hour, serving in tribute to his mother and continuing a legacy of praise and devotion.

Leoan's life was also blessed by the love and companionship of his special soulmate, Joyce Pearson, with whom he shared over 20 years together. Joyce remained faithfully by his side with unwavering love and care and was present during his final moments.

Leon was preceded in death by his parents, Willie Lee Lawrence and Gloria Lawrence Johnson, and his beloved daughter Marilyn Renee Lawrence ("Na Na").

He leaves to cherish his memory his children:

Walter Leoan Lawrence Jr. (Arsema), Joseph Lawrence, Shaun Michael Lawrence, Donnell Smith (Ryan), Lonnell Smith (Sofia) and Joyce Pearson.

He is also survived by his siblings: Linda Morgan, Kenneth Lawrence (Debra), Barbarbra Cooks (Dennis), and Jerry Lawrence (Janet); along with 11 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, cousins, and a host of other relatives and friends who will forever remember his life and legacy.

Closing Tribute

Leon's life was marked by faith, music, family, and perseverance. Though he has departed this earthly life, the love he gave, the memories he created, and the faith he carried will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him. His legacy will remain through his children, family, and all those whose lives were touched by his presence.

"A very special thank you to Frontier Hospice for their compassionate assistance with palliative care during Leon's final moments."

A Home Going Service is scheduled Saturday, March 28, 2026, 11:00 a.m., St. Matthew Baptist Church, 1001 E. Chicago Street, Okmulgee, OK; with Pastor McKinley Rice, delivering the eulogy.  Interment will follow in Bald Hill Cemetery, Okmulgee, OK.

OPEN CASKET VIEWING at the service.

The family has been cared for by House of Winn-Muskogee