Decorated Vietnam Veteran Lawrence Cephus Spivey of Cranston Dies at 76

Decorated Vietnam Veteran Lawrence Cephus Spivey of Cranston Dies at 76

Lawrence Cephus Spivey, age 76, passed away on January 8, 2026, at Massachusetts General Hospital. He was born on April 8, 1949, in Wake County, North Carolina, and later made his home in Cranston, Rhode Island.

Lawrence was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph and Mary (Rivers) Spivey; his brothers, Joseph “Joe Boy” Spivey; his sisters, Rev. Cora Thomas, Josephine Bunn, and Clarastine Judd; his wife, Joyce (Yelverton) Spivey; and his special friend, Jacqueline Green.

He leaves to cherish his memory his two daughters, Tamatha (Rev. Arthur) Fullerwinder and Sklya (Cass) Spivey; three grandchildren, Lawrence Brandon Spivey, Brandie Spivey, and Cass’ylah Spivey-Badgett; and three great-grandchildren, Dana Spivey, Lawrence Brandon Spivey Jr., and Langston Spivey. He is also survived by two sisters, Louise (Lonzell) Bass and Mary Spivey, along with a host of nieces, nephews, relatives, friends, and loved ones.

GET THE LATEST BREAKING NEWS HERE -- SIGN UP FOR GOLOCAL FREE DAILY EBLAST

Lawrence graduated from James E. Shephard High School in Zebulon, North Carolina. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted into the United States Army, where he served a tour in Vietnam. His bravery and sacrifice were recognized with two Purple Hearts and a Bronze Star with V-Device, honors that reflected his courage and dedication to his country.

Following his military service, Lawrence spent many years serving others through his work in the transportation industry by transporting vehicles throughout New England. A hardworking man with a generous heart, he was always willing to lend a hand or offer encouragement. When not working, he enjoyed spending time at the VFW, entertaining friends, supporting those around him, and reminiscing about the “good ole days.”

A memorial service for relatives and friends in the New England area will be held on Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Bell Funeral Home in Providence, Rhode Island. A second memorial service will be held in North Carolina at William Toney Funeral Home in Zebulon, North Carolina, for friends and loved ones in the Carolinas. Interment will follow at Riley Hill Baptist Church Cemetery (date to be determined).

Donations in Lawrence’s memory may be made to the family at $janepaynexo.

Lawrence Cephus Spivey will be remembered for his service, strength, kindness, and the love he shared with all who knew him.

Memorial Service
Sunday
January 18, 2026
4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Bell Funeral Home, Inc.
571 Broad Street
Providence, RI 02907