Robert Martin Lawrence

Robert Martin Lawrence, age 80, died February 21 surrounded by his family. Born in Oklahoma City, he attended Classen High School and was a National Merit Scholar. He graduated from Oklahoma State University in 1953 with degrees in both architecture and architectural engineering and received the American Institute of Architecture Medal as Outstanding Architectural Graduate.

He began work as a draftsman for Noftsger-Lawrence, a well-known architectural firm in Oklahoma City. In 1963, he was made a full partner in the firm. He later established his own architectural firm Robert M. Lawrence and Associates. He was a member of Sigma Phi Epsilon Fraternity and the Oklahoma Art Center. He was president of the Oklahoma City Travelers Aid Society, president of the Baptist Laymen’s Corporation, and president of the Kiwanis Club of Oklahoma City.

Bob was very active in his chosen profession serving the local chapter in many capacities and later at the national level serving on the AIA Board of Directors from the Central States Region. He was inducted into the College of Fellows, American Institute of Architects, in 1975. In 1981 he became the first Oklahoma architect elected president of the American Institute of Architects culminating nine years of service on the AIA Board. In 1983 Bob was appointed by the AIA to a four-year term on the National Architectural Accrediting Board serving as President in 1986-87. From 1985-92 he was a member of the Oklahoma State University School of Architecture Advisory Committee serving as president from 1989-92. He was inducted into the Oklahoma State University College of Engineering, Architecture and Technology Hall of Fame in 1992. He was awarded the Layton Prize for innovative use of brick masonry in architecture for his work at Heritage Hall School in Oklahoma City.

He served faithfully as a deacon at Olivet Baptist Church for many years before moving his membership to Quail Springs Baptist Church where he continued to serve. He was also a member of Quail Creek Golf & Country Club.

He is survived by his wife Joanne Holcombe Lawrence, son Carey Martin Lawrence and daughter Lisa Lawrence Lees, her husband Ray Lees, and grandchildren Chase Martin Dickens, Alexis Ann Dickens, Allison Lees, Alicia Lees and Matthew Lees.

A memorial service will be held at the Quail Springs Baptist Church 2 p.m. Friday, February 25, 2011. In lieu of flowers memorials may be made to Quail Springs Baptist Church.