Lawrence Smith Norton

North Myrtle Beach / Bennettsville

Lawrence Smith Norton, Jr. of North Myrtle Beach passed away April 23, 2023, at home with family surrounding him. He leaves behind his wife of 40 years, Frances Wright Norton; daughter, Caroline Masser (Kerry); and granddaughters; Scarlet Rae and Natalie Smith Masser of Springfield, VA; along with brother-in-law, Bill Wright of Scientist’s Cliffs, MD; cousins; Dr. Lillian Whitley Cavin and Sandy Whitley Hayes of TX, David Bryant of Clio, Jack Norton of Columbia, Ronnie Norton of Murrell’s Inlet, Richard Norton of Latta, Pam Norton of Bennettsville, Mary Ann Jackson Tyndall of Whiteville and John Jackson of Aiken are also experiencing his loss. He is predeceased by son, Lawrence Smith Norton, III, and parents, Lillian and Lawrence S. Norton, Sr.

Lawrence was born in Bennettsville, South Carolina in 1951, and grew up in Clio, South Carolina. He attended Clemson University, graduating in 1973 with a BS in Agricultural Economics. He was an enthusiastic Clemson Tiger supporter.

After graduating, Lawrence returned to Clio, South Carolina to farm with his father. He changed careers, going on to become an agricultural chemical salesman and eventually the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of CropLife America in Washington DC. Lawrence returned to South Carolina in 2010 to enjoy retirement years in his beloved home state.

Music, especially playing the piano, was a passion for which Lawrence was particularly known. Many friends and family fondly recall him playing for their weddings and other occasions. In his youth, he accompanied the Clemson Glee Club, participated in Tiger Band performances, played at several “legendary” clubs in Marlboro County, and accompanied The Marlboro Players. Lawrence also regularly played the organ in Marlboro County Churches.

Burroughs Funeral Home is assisting the Norton family. Memorial services will take place at 2:00 PM, Friday, April 28, 2023 at St. Paul’s Episcopal, 306 Fayetteville Ave. Bennettsville, SC. Interment will follow at Sunset Memorial Park, 1200 W. Main St. Bennettsville, SC.

Online condolences may be made to www.bfhbennettsville.com.

Burroughs Funeral Home is honored to assist the Norton family.

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