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STRUTHERS -- Joseph J. "Jay" Lawrence Jr., 89, of Struthers, passed away peacefully on Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Hospice of the Valley Hospice House in Poland.
Born Jan. 9, 1937, in Youngstown, Jay was a son of the late Joseph Lawrence Sr. and Helen Mentzer Lawrence.
Jay was a graduate of Struthers High School and proudly served his country in the United States Army.
He married the love of his life, the former Betty L. Allen, and together they shared nearly 66 wonderful years of marriage. Every year, they celebrated their anniversary where their story began -- Geneva-on-the-Lake.
Jay began his career at Youngstown Sheet & Tube before working at Republic Steel. He later retired from WCI in Warren in 2004.
A devoted husband, father, grandfather and great-grandfather, Jay found his greatest joy in spending time with his family. Affectionately known as "Papa J" by his grandchildren and great-grandchildren, he rarely missed an opportunity to cheer them on at their sporting events. He was an avid Cleveland Browns and Cleveland Guardians fan and enjoyed attending classic car and air shows.
Jay and Betty were longtime members of Holiday Camplands for more than 25 years, where they made countless cherished memories with family and friends. He was also a faithful member of Christ Our Savior Parish at St. Nicholas Church.
Jay will be deeply missed by his beloved wife of nearly 66 years, Betty L. (Allen) Lawrence; his daughters, Lynn (Paul) Fikaris, Diane (Rick) Kukura and Michele (Michael) Melia; his grandchildren, Luke (Sarah) Fikaris, Calista Fikaris, Rick (Ally) Kukura, Matt (Andrea) Kukura, Nicole (Jess) Shaw and Angela Melia; his great-grandchildren, Gabriel, Olivia, Avery, Lucas, Audrina, Ava and Paisley; his sister, Jayne (Richard) Butch; his brother-in-law, John (Mary Lou) Allen; his nephew, Ricky Butch; and many other loving family members and friends.
In addition to his parents, Jay was preceded in death by his brother, Paul Lawrence; and his nephew, Timothy Butch.
The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff of Hospice of the Valley Hospice House for the exceptional care and kindness shown to Jay during his final days.
Private services were held for the family.
He was laid to rest in Lake Park Cemetery.
Online condolences may be shared at www.beckerobits.com.
Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to Davidson-Becker Funeral Home, 11 Spring St., Struthers, Ohio 44471; 330-755-2111.
(special notice)