Lawrence James Morten, Sr.

Lawrence James Morten, Sr. was born on January 3, 1946, in Worthington Springs, Florida. He dedicated his life to serving others, spending 20 years in the U.S. Airforce followed by another 20 years with the Contra Costa County Sheriff's Department in California. His commitment to public service was further demonstrated through his education, as he earned a master's degree in criminal justice.

He was a respected member of the Sand Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Brandon, Mississippi, where he shared his faith and values with others. Lawrence passed away on December 5, 2025, in Brandon, Mississippi, leaving behind a legacy of service and devotion.

Lawrence is survived by his beloved wife, Elaine Swain Morten, and their children: daughter, Jacqueline D. Madison (Jeffery), son, Darryl S. Morten (Shalena), daughter, Gwendelyn J. Morten, son, Lawrence James Morten, Jr. (Vanessa Vorhauer-Morten), and daughter, Carmen M. Siqala (Angela). He is also survived by his three brothers, Albert Sidney Morten, Jr., George Morten (Sharron), and Hayward L. Morten, and his sister, Jesse M. Williams. He leaves behind a host of grandchildren and great-grandchildren who will remember him fondly.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his father, Albert Sidney Morten, his mother, Clara Bell Jackson Morten, his brother, Kenneth Morton, and his sister, Lois M. Woody. His memory will live on in the hearts of those who knew and loved him.

There will be a Celebration of Life Service 11:00 am Saturday, December 13, 2025, at Sand Hill Missionary Baptist Church in Brandon, MS.