Delbert Richard Lawrence lovingly known to all as Bill, passed away peacefully in his home amongst family on Wednesday July 16, 2014. Bill lived most of his life in Bakersfield Ca. surrounded by many family members and life long friends Bill was born in Bristell, OK to Joe and Ida Lawrence, the family journeyed to California when Bill was very young and made The San Joaquin Valley their permanent home. Bill was a farmer all his life and eventually retired after 34 years. Anyone who knew Bill, knows his love of hunting. Bill made many hunting trips up and down the state of California with his hound dogs and met many wonderful buddies along the way. Bill was known later in life for his Greyhound dogs he bred and raised. On any given weekend Bill could be found listening to his classic country records on his antique record player. Bill was a truck man and always took great pride in the custom dog boxes he built for his hunting dogs. His only greater pride was his family. Bill is survived by his loving wife of 53 years Donna, his devoted daughters Mary and Gwen, and sons Russell and Guy. He is also survived by his many grandchildren Mandi Kissack, Russell Lawrence, Kaila Lawrence, Justin Lawrence, Francisco Gonzales, Devin McIntosh, Donnellia Gonzales, and Eliza Zimmerle, and two great grandchildren Brenton Wooten and Tanner Wooten. Bill is also survived by his brothers Troy Lawrence, Joe Dale Lawrence, and Roger Lawrence and sisters Dixie Carter, Sandura Bland, and Nancy Jordan. Additionally he is survived by nephews, nieces, grand nephews/nieces, cousins, aunts and uncles. Bill is preceded in death by his parents Joe and Ida Lawrence and sister Shirlene Carter. A viewing will be held on July 22, 2014 at 9:30am at Peters Family Mortuary at 844 E Lerdo Hwy, Shafter Ca. with graveside services following at 10:30 Shafter Memorial Park 18662 Santa Fe Wy Shafter Ca. Bill fought a long battle with cancer and remained home until the end. In lieu of flowers, the family has set up a relief fund account. Donations can be made at any Kerns Schools Federal Credit Union under Delbert (Bill) Lawrence Memorial Account. Isaiah 41:10 10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.