Brandon Aulburn ‘Bless’ Lawrence
Aug. 15, 1984 – April 3, 2026
Lawrence
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Brandon Aulburn Lawrence, known as “Bless,” on Good Friday, April 3, 2026, peacefully at his Altoona residence. Born in Dallas, Texas, at Parkland Memorial Hospital, Brandon was the youngest son of Charles and Deborah Lawrence, who survive alongside his brother, Carlos; and grandmother, Judith Dejaiffe. He also leaves behind a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins that hold his memory close.
Preceding him in death were his beloved great-grandma Isabelle Emeigh; grandmother, Alice E. Lawrence; and niece, Domonique Ester-Rose Ballos.
Brandon worked diligently from the age of 14, contributing to his community through various roles, including landscaping at local baseball fields, pizza delivery and assisting within the Altoona Area School District. Anyone who knew Brandon knew that he was a lifelong Dallas Cowboys fan and found joy in the simple pleasures of fishing, mentoring the younger athletes and playing/watching sports. He also had a love for animals.
Brandon exhibited a zest for life and a natural athleticism that saw him excel in various pursuits throughout his elementary and junior high years. His main goal was to become a famous football player. In 2002, he ranked in the top ten competitors in the Track and Field Decathlon. Brandon graduated with honors from Altoona Area High School in 2004, where his exceptional size, speed and intellect earned him two scholarship opportunities in track/football.
Brandon accepted the prestigious four-year scholarship to the University of Richmond, a testament to his dedication and talent. In 2006, Brandon transferred his scholarship to Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP), where his journey took an unexpected turn. A tragic accident left him quadriplegic for the remaining 17 years of his life. Despite the challenges he faced, Brandon’s resilience, radiant smile and magnetic personality were loved by many, particularly the ladies. He possessed an innate ability to bring good energy into any room. Later in life, he found solace and strength in his growing faith in Jesus Christ knowing he had a glorified body waiting for him, and this was deeply inspired by the close bond he shared with his grandmother, Alice.
Brandon’s legacy will continue on, for those who put their faith in Jesus Christ, this is not goodbye, but rather see you later. “Love you forever”
The family wishes to extend their deepest gratitude to the dedicated nurses and caregivers who went beyond the call of duty to provide Brandon with love, nurturing and forming lifelong friendships along the way. A heartfelt thank you is also extended to his friends, acquaintances and the Altoona Area Athletic Department for their generous contributions to the funeral arrangements, easing this process immensely.
Family and friends are invited to gather from 11 a.m. until noon on Saturday, May 16, 2026, at Myers-Somers Funeral Home Inc., 501 Sixth Ave., Altoona, to honor the remarkable life of a man who is remembered and loved by many. A memorial service for Brandon will begin at noon, at the funeral home, with Minister Karen Ferguson officiating.
myerssomersfuneralhome.com