Davis Wayne Lawrence

June 17, 1942 – July 30, 2025

Davis Wayne Lawrence passed away peacefully on July 30, 2025, at the Senior Suites of Urbandale in Urbandale, Iowa. He was 83 years old.

Davis was born at home on June 17, 1942, in Brooklyn, Arkansas, to Davis Addison Lawrence and Verna Qualls. He was welcomed into the world by his grandmother, Lilly Qualls, who served as his midwife. That home, the old home place, remained a meaningful part of his life story.

A 1961 graduate of Lincoln High School, Davis went on to work at Firestone for 22 years. In 1984, he became the original owner of Mr. Bibbs, launching what would become a 31-year career as an entrepreneur, managing multiple businesses across Iowa and Missouri. Whether in business or in life, Davis was never idle—he was always working on a project, especially when it came to remodeling and selling homes, a hobby he deeply enjoyed.

One of Davis’s most cherished memories was driving to see the total solar eclipse in 2017—a trip that combined his sense of adventure with his appreciation for life’s wonders. He also had a deep love for animals, especially his dogs Finley, Daisy, and his all-time favorites, Duke and Cotter, who brought him years of joy and companionship.

Davis will be remembered for his devotion to family, loyalty to friends, and the quiet strength with which he lived his life. He had a good life, filled with love, hard work, and the comfort of cherished relationships.

He is survived by his loving wife, Leta Lawrence; his daughter, April Lawrence; stepsons Jerry (Chezron) Hoffman and Todd (Tammy) Hoffman; daughter-in-law Melinda Lawrence; grandchildren Joshua Auxier, Breana Lafferty, Alex Hoffman, Karigen Hoffman, Orion Hoffman, and Tyler Hoffman—with whom he shared a special bond; and great-grandchildren Wyatt Spencer, Averi Auxier, and Leelah Auxier. Davis is also survived by his brothers Everett (Rose) Lawrence and Darrell (Christine) Lawrence; many nieces, nephews, cousins; his first wife, Joann Lawrence; longtime friends; and wonderful neighbors. His beloved dogs Finley, Daisy, Duke, and Cotter remain part of his lasting legacy.

He was preceded in death by his son, David Lawrence; his sister, Martha Smith; and brother-in-law, John Smith.

A memorial service to celebrate Davis’s life will be held on Sunday, August 10, 2025, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. at the Senior Suites of Urbandale, 4700 84th St., Urbandale, IA.