Craig Richard Lawrence

Craig Richard Lawrence died recently in a tragic accident in his home. He was 66 years old. The family is deeply saddened and shocked by his sudden death and the loss of his light in our lives. Craig was born on April 19, 1959, in Nashua, NH. He graduated from Hollis Area High School, received his Bachelor of Science from the Thompson School at the University of New Hampshire and received his Master’s of Fine Arts in English and Writing at Salem State College in Massachusetts.

Craig was an avid reader, writer and musical creator. He loved growing things, gardening, landscaping and walking in nature. He was passionate about being a good father to his son Gavin and his animal family; Shy, Miles, Gary and Nelson. Often combining those passions by taking his son and dog to the beach or for walks on the reservation trails throughout the North Shore of Massachusetts. Craig was excited that his love of music was being taken up by his son. He and Gavin spent the past few years with guitars and learning songs together. Craig was also an avid sports fan. He loved going to watch his son play High School Hockey and Lacrosse, College Lacrosse and even just shooting hoops in the back yard. Craig’s passion for listening to and creating music became something he integrated into his career.

Craig spent a lifetime working in criminal justice in Massachusetts in the Department of Youth Services and MA Probation Services trying to help youths to navigate life and the court system in Massachusetts. He was a leading force in the music program in the Department of Youth Services. Craig most recently used his love of music to be part of a program that brought a voice and an outlet of expression to incarcerated young men who have fallen through the cracks of society. He firmly believed that music could be an integral part of healing to those who needed it.

Craig felt that giving to others from his own experience was vital. He did this in his work, in his mentoring of budding young musicians and athletes and in helping those who struggle in life. He served as a mentor to many with integrity and kindness and was a friend of Bill W.

Craig is survived by his son, Gavin Lawrence of Westford, MA. His sisters, Gail Lawrence of Wilmington, NC and Elizabeth James (and her husband Jack James) of Wilmington, NC. His brother, Daniel Lawrence (and his wife Kate Lawrence and two children; Charlotte and Tucker Lawrence) of Manchester, MA. His niece and nephew, Emma Rosen and Lucas Rosen. His former wife, Kim (Howe) Lawrence of Westford MA and his girlfriend, Ellen Link of Boston MA. Along with a multitude of friends.

He is preceded in death by his mother, Janet (Primeau) Lawrence of Hollis NH and father, William Lawrence also of Hollis NH.

Craig was a very special father, husband, brother, and friend. He will be sorely missed but at least we can take comfort that he is now free, in body, mind and spirit.

Join us to celebrate his life and the many ways he shared his time, talents and love at Lawrence Barn Community Center 28 Depot Road Hollis, NH on June 4th at 11:30 am. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to https://thetrustees.org/.

For those who cannot attend but wish to share memories or express gratitude, thoughts, prayers or photographs can be sent to www.davisfuneralhomenh.com and we will post these on a wall to share at the celebration.