Marie Kenney Lawrence, 86, of Perry, Georgia, passed away peacefully at her home on August 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of her family.

Born on January 5, 1940, in Montezuma, Georgia, Marie lived a life defined by love, resilience, faith in better days, and an unwavering devotion to her family. She was the kind of person whose presence could light up a room with nothing more than her smile, whose laughter could ease any burden, and whose kindness left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Marie grew up in Montezuma as a free spirit who embraced life with enthusiasm and joy. Throughout her life, she built a family centered on love, generosity, and togetherness. She raised four children with her late husband, James Daniel Jones, and later shared many years with her beloved husband, George "Ken" Lawrence, who preceded her in death.

She was also preceded in death by her sons, William "Bill" Jones and Kelly Shaw (Chris), and her grandson, Lawson Shaw.

She is survived by her children, Debbie Jones, James "Dan" Jones (Misty), and John "Calvin" Jones; her grandchildren, Tori Lowery (Andrew), Jennifer Rabun (Chris), Amber Jones (Patrick), Kenny Cox (Leslie), Jimmy Jones (Marissa), Jason Jones (Lacey), Levon Jones (Brandy), and Tanner Shaw (Kristina); her brother, Jimmy Kenney (Nancy); her sister, BetteJean Avera (Joel); many cherished great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren; and countless extended family members and friends whose lives were made richer by knowing her.

To her family, however, she was simply "Rere."

The nickname began when her husband affectionately called her "Reecie" and over the years the grandchildren transformed it into the name that would become so beloved. To hear someone say "Rere" was to immediately think of warmth, comfort, laughter, and unconditional love.

Rere's home was the heart of the family. The greatest family memories were often made gathered around her table, where an incredible meal was always waiting and everyone knew they were welcome. She had a special gift for making people feel important, and no one ever left her home without feeling loved. Whether she was teaching a grandchild how to make taco bake, sharing the secret to perfect deviled eggs, or simply listening to someone talk about their day, she gave each person her full attention and her whole heart.

Her love for family was matched only by her love for life. She took pride in her beautiful yard and flower beds, and it was a familiar and comforting sight to see her outside tending flowers, soaking in the sunshine, and finding joy in the simple blessings around her.

The first thing many people remember about Marie is her smile. The second is her laugh. Even through life's greatest hardships, she chose joy. She endured the loss of three husbands and two children. She courageously battled and beat breast cancer twice. Yet through every challenge, she remained strong, optimistic, and determined to find the good in each day. She taught her family one of life's most important lessons: that every minute is a gift, that love should be shared freely, and that no challenge is too great when faced with faith, courage, and a positive heart.

Her grandchildren will forever cherish the lessons she taught in the kitchen, the stories she shared, the hugs she gave, and the way she made each of them feel like they were the most important person in the room. Her great-grandchildren will continue to benefit from the traditions, values, and love she passed down through generations.

While her family grieves her passing, they also celebrate a remarkable life. A life filled with perseverance, generosity, laughter, and love. A life that touched countless hearts and created memories that will endure for generations.

Though her chair may now sit empty and her kitchen may be quiet, the love she poured into her family will continue to live on in every recipe shared, every flower planted, every family gathering held, and every smile inspired by her memory.

The family finds comfort in knowing that Rere's legacy is not measured in years, but in the lives she touched, the family she nurtured, and the love she gave so freely. She will be deeply missed, forever loved, and never forgotten.