Charles H. "Charlie" Lawrence, III

81, of Johnston, passed away peacefully on Saturday, April 18, 2026, at Rhode Island Hospital in Providence. He was the beloved husband of 56 years to Arlene P. (DeFazio) Lawrence.

Born in Leominster, Massachusetts, Charlie was the son of the late Charles H. Lawrence Jr. and Dorothy M. (St. Dennis) Lawrence.

Charlie was a proud graduate of UMass Amherst and served honorably in the United States Air Force during the Vietnam War. He was stationed at Clark Air Force Base in the Philippines, where he worked as a television news announcer for Armed Forces Radio and Television.

Following his military service, Charlie began his career in sales and advertising within the Providence media market before later working in the newspaper industry as a photographer—a role that perfectly matched his creative eye and appreciation for capturing meaningful moments.

Charlie was an avid and talented photographer who especially loved taking photos of his grandchildren at sporting events and family gatherings. He enjoyed walking at Johnston Memorial Park with his beloved wife and had a curious and thoughtful mind. He was a chess enthusiast and had a deep interest in Civil War history and astronomy—subjects he found both fascinating and inspiring. Above all, Charlie cherished time spent with his family and close friends.

In addition to his loving wife Arlene, Charlie is survived by his devoted children, Cheryl A. Lima (Scott) of Coventry and Michael C. Lawrence (Nancie) of Chepachet. He was a proud and cherished grandfather to Brandin, Nathan, Joshua, Katelyn, Nicholas, and Michael. He is also survived by his dear siblings, Exerine Silva of East Longmeadow, MA, Dennis Lawrence of Springfield, MA, and Paul Lawrence of Columbia, SC.

Visiting hours will be held on Monday, April 27, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m., followed by a Funeral Service at 7:00 p.m. at the Nardolillo Funeral Home & Crematory, 1278 Park Avenue, Cranston. Burial with military honors at St. Ann Cemetery, Cranston will be private.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Robert Bellarmine Food Shelf, 1804 Atwood Avenue, Johnston, RI 02919.

Charlie will be deeply missed and lovingly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.