Obituary of Geoffrey E Lawrence

Geoffrey E. Lawrence, Jr. was the only child born to Geoffrey Lawrence, Sr. and Girlena Gee in Brooklyn, NY. He started his early education at P.S. 241 in Brooklyn, and later went to Poly Prep Country Day School, where he distinguished himself both in the classroom and on the football field. While attending Poly Prep, Geoffrey was selected for a European exchange program that provided educational and cultural experiences in Germany, England, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway. Geoffrey attended Hamilton College in Clinton, NY, where he won an award for public speaking and was recognized in the "Who's Who" Among Students in American Colleges and Universities. He balanced his academic pursuits with extracurricular activities at the campus radio station, WHCL-FM, where he entertained listeners as a late-night DJ under the on-air name "Captain Midnight." He later earned his Juris Doctor from the Thurgood Marshall School of Law in Houston, Texas. During his time in law school, he was introduced to his future wife, Beverly, by a fellow classmate, Lewis Cook. The couple married on June 10th and later welcomed their only child, Gizette. Education was one of the cornerstones of Geoffrey's life. In recognition of his commitment to learning and community service, he became an Honorary Member of the Women's League of Science & Medicine, Inc. Passionate about helping others achieve their academic goals, he frequently provided scholarships to support students pursuing their undergraduate education. Geoffrey's spiritual journey began at a young age, where he developed a strong foundation of faith. Later, in 1991, he became one of Jehovah's Witnesses and worshipped at the Ebbets Field congregation in Brooklyn, New York. In 2024, he transferred his membership to the congregation in Hackensack, New Jersey. As a devoted worshipper of Jehovah, Geoffrey actively supported his congregation in many ways. He graciously assisted in hosting the Circuit Overseer during visits to Brooklyn and was always willing to serve, including delivering talks to the congregation whenever called upon. His faith, dedication, and willingness to contribute left a lasting impression on those who worshipped alongside him. In 1988, he began his career as a Fraud Investigator for New York State's Program Integrity Unit, a position he held with dedication and commitment for 34 years until his retirement. Throughout his career, he earned the respect and admiration of his colleagues through his professionalism, integrity, and warm personality. He cultivated lasting friendships in the workplace and was genuinely liked and appreciated by all who had the privilege of working with him. Geoffrey's love of fishing began in childhood, inspired by his Uncle Jimmy (James Farley) and his Hawaiian next door neighbor, "Pineapple" Bob. What started as a youthful pastime grew into a lifelong passion. His dedication to the sport led him to serve as a field reporter for The Fisherman Magazine for over 25 years. Throughout his life, he generously shared his knowledge, advice, and enthusiasm with anglers of all skill levels. In his retirement, Geoffrey spent much of his time fishing and taking road trips to visit and reconnect with family. His later years were marked by two courageous battles with cancer, believed to be connected to his exposure while working in the post 9/11 zone. The first diagnosis came in 2008 and the final diagnosis of pancreatic cancer was made in March 2026. He peacefully passed away in his sleep on June 2, 2026. Geoffrey is survived by his beloved wife, Beverly, and his daughter, Gizette. He also leaves behind his brothers in-law, Hal Jones and Ronald Jones (LaDessa); his special cousins, Marguerita Fletcher (Ted), Gloria George (Jose), Denise Carter, George Wilson (Dana) and Kahlil C. Fletcher; and his close nephews, Isaac Jones (Raven) and Steven Jones (Carmen). Geoffrey will be fondly remembered by his lifelong friends and schoolmates, Eric Berman (Gail) and Dr. Richard Wissler (Kathy), and his best friend/fishing buddy, Angel Cruz. He is also remembered by his fellow worshippers in the Ebbets Field and Hackensack congregations of Jehovah's Witnesses, his cherished friends throughout the fishing community; including The Fisherman Magazine, charter boat captains, crew members, and bait-and tackle shop owners as well as his extended family of colleagues at the New York State Program Integrity Unit. In addition, Geoffrey leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends, who will always cherish his memories and carry forward the lessons, kindness, faith, and love he shared throughout his life. In honor of Mr. Geoffrey E. Lawrence, Honorary Member of the Women's League of Science and Medicine, Inc., in lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to the organization. Donations may be sent via Zelle to: wlsmdollars4scholars@gmail.com Or by check to: Women's League of Science and Medicine, Inc. 1643 East 54th Street Brooklyn, NY 11234 Please include in the memo: "In Honor of Geoffrey E. Lawrence" A portion of all donations received in Mr. Lawrence's memory will be provided to the Lawrence family. Thank you for your support.