Kelly N. Lawrence

Published 9:42 am Monday, April 14, 2025

BOWLING GREEN – Kelly Neil Lawrence, 60, of Bowling Green, KY, passed away on April 6, 2025, in Honduras, where he had spent the past 15 years faithfully serving in ministry.

He is survived by his loving wife of nearly 42 years, Patricia Lawrence (Trisha). He was the proud father of Andrew Lawrence (Sara) and Hannah Lawrence Barahona, and the cherished grandfather of Audrey, Elisabeth, and Grace Lawrence, and Nicholas, Olivia, and Alexander Barahona. He is also survived by his father, Maxwell Lawrence; brothers Dwayne, Roy (Sandy), Terry, and Billy; and many cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was preceded in death by his mother, Vivian Faye Lawrence.

Kelly’s work ethic and servant’s heart were at the core of who he was. He spent his life ministering through service – never afraid to get his hands dirty, and always willing to meet people where they were. As the owner of J&J Sheet Metal, he was known not only for his craftsmanship, but for his compassion. He was often a listening ear and a caring heart to his customers, treating them like family.

Kelly had always carried the heart of a pastor, and in time, he and Trisha felt a deeper call to serve in Honduras, where they founded Borders Expanded Ministries. There, he dedicated his life to educating rural pastors, supporting children with special needs, and shepherding the local church through discipleship and love. He believed deeply in walking alongside others and lifting them up with compassion, humility, and the hope of Christ.

His legacy of faith, hard work, and unwavering compassion lives on through his family, the many lives he touched, and the seeds this ministry has sown. What began through his teaching will continue through the seeds of discipleship he so faithfully planted.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, April 15, from 4 to 8 p.m., and Wednesday, April 16, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Woodburn Baptist Church in Woodburn, KY. The funeral service will follow at 1 p.m. Wednesday at the church, with burial at Woodburn City Cemetery. Arrangements have been entrusted into the care of the J.C. Kirby and Son Broadway Chapel’

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Borders Expanded Ministries in honor of Kelly’s life and the continued work of his ministry: https://www.be-ministries.org/donate.