Uncle Doug Lawrence

Doug Lawrence was my uncle. Sooo... many people are, and will be, saying things about him right now, because he knew...soooo...many...people... If he were here right now I would be lacing that statement with a bit of sarcastic tone and eye roll, just to jab at him. It's true, He was well, well known and loved in the music world and in his inner circles and it will rightfully be talked about and cherished by many. But still. [Insert affectionate eye-roll and head-shake right here] (He would expect no. less. of me.)
I came in to the world when Doug was still in high school, and POOF! he became Uncle Doug. He instinctively knew he was supposed to be one of my fans, and so he was. He also accused me of being a weird kid and never... dropped that ATTITUDE. I did my best to own it and hey, I was not the only weird one in the relationship. Just sayin'.
I think that my fondest memories came from the years that we both found ourselves in a bumpy season of life. We talked, we confided. We had lunch. One or two or... three of the best lunch date memories of my life.
Through the years there were all of those shared Thanksgivings at Grandma's, Christmases, July pool parties and all of the lovely family things. When he sang at my tiny wedding, I wanted to appreciate that a celebrated baritone was singing at my* wedding, but really, my heart just loved that Uncle Doug was singing. He was the best.
I'm convinced that some of the best relationships in life include some serious eye-rolls, good conversation and great hugs. I am grateful for all of those Uncle Doug memories, and so wish that the many miles between us, had allowed for far more.
Congratulations Uncle Doug! You now know grace, face to face.
Till we meet again. ♥

Having known his life was nearing the end I always thought I would share this video of him when the time came. Turns out, a lot of others wanted to share the same video.




https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=FaEWqheh3Mc&fbclid=IwAR1Xs_5CaBUyCI9AtqDxq2-MQiy2Lp0M8x_21uYR5JCTYpZcEuEc2QipuOE

His professional bio in a nutshell:
https://www.bach-cantatas.com/Bio/Lawrence-Douglas.htm?fbclid=IwAR28Mpfav02G0yHfNFgNMYdF6OpkrCsu9aWh5bdFOKWO9eIf7jtEG-QOok0