Mr. William “W.C.” Clay Lawrence, 85, of Mocksville, passed away Tuesday, May 30, 2023 at Forsyth Medical Center.

W.C. was born May 20, 1938 in Ashe County to Coy and Ellie Mae Main Lawrence. He was a member of Courtney Baptist Church and was a veteran of the Army National Guard. W.C. owned W.C. Lawrence Construction for many years and was also a land developer. He enjoyed fishing and antiquing.

In addition to his parents, W.C. was preceded in death by: his granddaughter, Emmily Clarkson; brothers, George (Nell) and Carl Lawrence; and an infant sister, Delores Lawrence.

He is survived by: his loving wife of 66 years, Gay Nell Baity Lawrence; 2 daughters, Leesa (Phillip) Pardue and Lorie (Mark) Clarkson; grandson, Seth Clarkson (Megan Styers); sisters-in-law, Sue Lawrence and Glenda Lawrence; numerous special nieces, nephews, and cousins; and his granddogs, Cletus, Jetty and Pearl.

A funeral service was conducted at 5 p.m. Saturday, June 3 at Courtney Baptist Church with Pastor James Williams officiating. Burial followed in the church cemetery.  The family received friends prior to the service at the church.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in memory of Emmily Eliza Clarkson to: Courtney Baptist “Bus Fund”, 3341 Courtney Church Rd Yadkinville, NC 27055; or to South Oak Ridge Baptist “Fellowship of Christian Athletes” 1336 Lone Hickory Rd. Yadkinville, NC 27055.

The family wishes to express their sincere appreciation to their friends and neighbors for their love and support.

Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Lawrence family.