1949 - 2026
Born in Framingham, Ray was the son of the late Raymond F. and Jeanette (Letorneau) Lawrence. He was raised and educated in Framingham, graduated from Xaverian Brothers High School in Westwood, and later earned an associate degree from Bentley University.
In 1969, Ray volunteered to serve his country by joining the United States Marine Corps. He served during the Vietnam War, attained the rank of Lance Corporal, and was awarded the Purple Heart. He received his honorable discharge in 1970.
Following his military service and college graduation, Ray began working for his father’s trucking company. After the company was acquired by Browning-Ferris Industries, he continued his career there as an Operations Manager and later a District Manager. Ray eventually joined Waste Management, where he served as a Regional Operations Manager before retiring.
Outside of work, Ray enjoyed fishing, staying busy, and spending time with family and friends. He also had a lifelong love of new cars and took tremendous pride in keeping them spotless. He was known for washing his car every morning—even during the winter.
Ray is survived by his former wife and dear friend, Paulette (Capistran) Lawrence of Upton; his daughter, Jennifer Cascella and her husband, Steven, of Uxbridge; his son, Raymond F. Lawrence and his wife, Maria Eleanor, of Upton; his two beloved grandchildren, Joseph Cascella and Layla Lawrence; his brother, James “Jim” Lawrence of Newport, Rhode Island; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.
A funeral Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, September 4th, at St. Gabriel the Archangel Church, located at 151 Mendon Street in Upton.
Burial with military honors will follow at Lakeview Cemetery in Upton.
Following the services, family and friends are invited to a luncheon at Willow Brook Restaurant, located at 16 Hastings Street in Mendon.
There are no calling hours.
