Roger Lynn Lawrence

Roger Lynn Lawrence, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, at his home in Franklin, KY. Born on October 2, 1954, in Russellville, KY, Roger spent his life dedicated to his family, work, and community.

Roger was a proud alumnus of Franklin-Simpson High School, graduating with the class of 1973. He dedicated 38 years of his life to his work as a laborer at Sealed Power/Dana/Mahle, where he was known for his strong work ethic. In addition, Roger spent 8 years working at Don Dunn Farms and Don Dunn Implements and contributed 11 years to the Franklin-Simpson Parks, reflecting his deep connection to his community.

Roger had a passion for tractor pulling, gardening, and working on equipment. However, his greatest joy came from spending time with his family, who were the center of his world.

He is survived by his devoted mother, Christine Shoulders, and his loving wife of 52 years, Helen Lawrence. Roger was a proud father to three children: Shannon Smith (Terry) of Orlinda, TN, Crystal Provins (Cliff) of Crossville, TN, and Brian Lawrence (Natalie) of Franklin, KY. His legacy continues through his eight grandchildren: Alex (Taylor), Cody, Cody (Hailey), Tiffany (Boston), Grace (Maison),Tanner (Bethany) and Audrey, as well as twelve great-grandchildren, with another great-grandbaby on the way. Roger is also survived by his stepbrother, Bobby Shoulders (Debbie) of Adairville, KY, stepsister, Carol Wilkerson of Adairville, TN, and several nieces and nephews.

Roger was preceded in death by his father, James "Bill" Lawrence, stepfather, Earl Shoulders, brother, Billy Alvin Lawrence, grandson, CJ, granddaughter, Kail, paternal grandparents, Thomas "Dump" Lawrence and Corine Lawrence, maternal grandparents, Marvin Cauley and Mary Cauley, mother-in-law, Nora Turner, and father-in-law, Raymond Turner.

Visitation will be Friday, April 24 2026 from 2:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. Visitation will continue Saturday, April 25, 2006 from 6:00 AM until 11:00 AM at the funeral home. Funeral service will be held Saturday, April 25, 2026 at 11:00 AM at the funeral home, interment will follow in the Methodist Church Cemetery in Orlinda, TN.

Pallbearers honoring Roger's memory will be Brian Lawrence, Alex Barnes, Cody Barnes, Tanner Provins, Audrey Lawrence, Boston Faulhaber, Terry Smith, Michael Lawrence, and Jay Lawrence. Honorary pallbearers include Myron Thurman, Mike Pitt, Leon Pitt, Tim Cook, Chris Rowland, and Bryan Forshee.

Arrangements have been entrusted to Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory. For more information, please visit their website at www.gilbertfhonline.com or their Facebook page, Gilbert Funeral Home & Crematory, Inc. You may also call the obituary phone line at 270-586-8844.

Roger Lynn Lawrence will be deeply missed by all who knew him. His legacy of love, hard work, and dedication to family and community will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to be part of his life.