Paul Laurence

“Well done, good and faithful servant.” — Matthew 25:23

It is with deep love and sorrow that we announce the passing of Paul John Laurence, age 79, of St. Petersburg, Florida, on October 13, 2025. Paul was born on December 7, 1945, in Marlborough, Massachusetts, to Ernest and Alice Laurence.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Sandra Schweikert Laurence, and their four children: Nicole (Adam), Timothy, Teresa (Timothy), and Thomas. He was a proud grandfather to 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren. He is also survived by four of his 13 siblings: Francis, John, Ceil, and Alice.

He was preceded in death by his son, Anthony; his parents, Ernest and Alice Laurence; and nine siblings: Therese, Doris, Ernest, James, Joseph, Marie, William, Robert, and Raymond.

Paul lived a life dedicated to service—both to his country and his community. After proudly serving in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, he pursued his passion for caregiving by attending the University of South Florida and becoming a nurse. He worked throughout St. Petersburg at various nursing facilities, most recently with Bon Secours Maria Manor and later found his calling as an educator at, Pinellas Technical College, where he inspired future nurses while teaching CNA and LPN classes. In addition to his nursing career, Paul also served for many years as the Extended Day Director at Holy Family Catholic School, where he made a lasting impact on countless children and families. Paul’s compassion and dedication touched many lives—both in the classroom and the community.

Faith was at the center of Paul’s life. He was a devoted member of Holy Family Catholic Church, where he served actively in ministry, giving communion to the sick and homebound and joyfully sharing his faith by reading at Masses. He also volunteered as a Faith Community Nurse through St Anthony’s Hospital, offering care and comfort to those in need. He was rarely seen without his rosary in hand, finding comfort and joy in praying with others. He shared his faith openly and passionately, offering peace, hope, and encouragement to everyone he met.

Paul and his beloved wife Sandy shared 43 beautiful years of marriage, built on faith, laughter, and a shared devotion to caring for others. Their love for one another was evident in everything they did—from raising their family to serving their community side by side. They also shared a deep passion for nursing, supporting and encouraging each other throughout their careers, always putting compassion at the heart of their work.

Together, they loved traveling and making memories with their family. They especially enjoyed RVing and visiting the mountains, cherishing the beauty of nature and the time spent with loved ones.

Later in life, Paul discovered a new passion—riding his Harley-Davidson Tri Glide. He loved taking weekend rides with his motorcycle club, the Golden Eagles, enjoying the open road and the camaraderie of friends.

Paul will be remembered for his unwavering faith, kind heart, generous spirit, and deep love for his family.

The visitation will be held at Holy Family Catholic Church, St. Petersburg, on Wednesday, October 29 at 1pm followed by a funeral Mass at 2pm. We will have a memorial gathering at Diffley Hall (part of the church) immediately following the service. Family and friends are invited to celebrate Paul’s life and legacy.

In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations be made in Paul’s memory to Catholic Charities, St Anthony’s Hospital Auxiliary or other worthy charities.