Lawrence B. Jamison of Columbia, MO has gone home, leaving behind a circle of those who loved him.
Here is what we wish the world to know of Lawrence.
Lawrence spent his working life as ['car sales manager'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
There is no greater gift than the one a parent gives by simply being present.
Lawrence B. Jamison, 62, passed away on May 1, 2026, at Boone Health Center in Columbia, Missouri. Lawrence (Larry) was born on August 22, 1963, in Havre de Grace, Maryland, to Paul (Larry) Nichols and Sandra Caudill. He was then later lovingly raised by Michael Jamison.
Larry grew up in Fredericksburg, Virginia, and graduated from Stafford High School as part of the Class of 1981. He went on to attend Virginia Tech before beginning his career with Nichols Department Store, where he quickly rose to the position of Store Manager. His work eventually brought him to Bath, New York, where he met the love of his life, Kelly Jamison.
In their early years together, Larry and Kelly lived in Hagerstown, Maryland. They were married on April 22, 1989, and later made their home in Painted Post, where they built a life together. Married for 37 years, their partnership was a lasting testament to love and commitment. Larry spent the majority of his career as a car sales manager, where he was known for his strong work ethic and dedication.
Larry was a proud husband and father. He was a true mentor to his sons, teaching them to play catch, football, and golf. Larry was always showing them love and support for anything they pursued. There are many memories of him watching ball games from across the street after protesting questionable calls too loudly and being asked to leave the park. He would never miss a chance to support his family in all they did, and was always available to offer an encouraging word.
He spent his early mornings and late evenings talking with Kelly about how proud he was of his children and grandchildren, whom he truly missed whenever he was not with them. He loved fishing for big fish in the ocean and, occasionally, would swallow his pride to fish for small fish in ponds or lakes.
Larry was at his core a bit of a goofball. He had a way of making a mess out of just about anything he tried, but it only added to his charm. Larry loved mowing the yard, sometimes in the most inefficient patterns. He loved quoting The Godfather at just the right time and he could happily watch Law & Order over and over again as if it were the first time. He will be remembered as a man who found happiness in life's simple and meaningful moments. He was an avid griller, always eager to try a new recipe, with brisket and burnt ends as signature dishes. The results were not always predictable, sometimes a masterpiece, sometimes "interesting", but he always went for it with enthusiasm and a story (or apology) afterward. Larry also had a special love for all animals. He cared for them with a gentle and attentive spirit and his loyal sidekicks, Skyeler and Sophie, held a particularly cherished place in his heart. The beach was also a sacred place to him. A place of peace, reflection and quiet happiness. He embraced the sunshine fully, often with that familiar first sunburn that he would later laugh and gently complain about, a small reminder of days well spent. Larry most of all had a deep and abiding love for his children and grandchildren, taking great pride in their lives and celebrating each of their accomplishments with genuine joy. Time spent with them was among his greatest treasures.
Larry's life was marked by love, laughter and a willingness to embrace each moment as it came. He will be dearly missed and fondly remembered by all who knew him.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Kelly Jamison; his children, Seth (Jen) Jamison of Painted Post, New York, Evan (Kerrianne) Jamison of Freeman, Missouri; and his cherished grandchildren, Cole, Cade, Cal, Noelle, and Margot Jamison. He is also survived by his father, Michael (Ellen) Jamison of Roanoke, Virginia, and his mother-in-law, Bonita Dobson of Painted Post, New York.
He also shared a lifelong bond with his best friend, Bill Roberts. For more than 40 years, no matter how much time had passed, they always picked up right where they left off, showing that their friendship never faded, no matter the distance or time apart.
Larry was preceded in death by his mother, Sandra Caudill; his sister, Lauren Ipsan; and his father, Paul (Larry) Nichols.
Family and friends will be received at Phillips Funeral Home, 17 W. Pulteney, Street, Corning, NY on Tuesday, May 12, 2026 from 4:00pm to 6:00pm. A Funeral Mass will be held at St. Mary's Church, 155 State St, Corning, NY on Wednesday at 11:00am Celebrated by Fr. Matthew Walter. Larry will be laid to rest in Chapel Knoll Cemetery immediately following Mass.
Memorial donations may be made to Pawz and Purrz Animal Rescue, Inc.P.O. Box 466, Painted Post, NY 14870 and Corning Christian Academy, 11 Aisne Street, Corning, NY 14830.
