It was a day of heartfelt emotion and fond remembrance in Bristol, as the sporting world came together to honour the life of David “Syd” Lawrence—a man known as much for his big personality as his fast bowling.
Friends, family, and fellow athletes gathered to say their goodbyes to the former England cricketer, whose career and life left a lasting mark on all who knew him.
A Life Cut Short, But Richly Lived
David Lawrence passed away on June 21 at the age of 61, following a tough year-long battle with Motor Neurone Disease (MND).
While his international cricket career included just five Tests for England between 1988 and 1992, Lawrence’s impact on the game stretched far beyond statistics.
Over 17 years, he notched up an impressive 515 first-class wickets.
He became president of Gloucestershire County Cricket Club in 2022—a role that reflected his stature in the sport—and was awarded an MBE just last month in the King’s Birthday Honours.
Though his time on the field ended earlier than expected, his influence off the pitch grew even stronger.
St Mary Redcliffe Filled with Love and Respect
The historic St Mary Redcliffe church in Bristol was packed on Friday as loved ones came to celebrate Lawrence’s life.
His son, Buster Lawrence—a former professional rugby player—helped carry his father into the church, surrounded by both grieving family and famous faces.
England cricket legends like Phil Tufnell, Jack Russell, and Mark Alleyne were there, alongside Ipswich Town football icon Marcus Stewart, who is also battling MND.
Each person in attendance brought their own memories, their own moments, and their own respect for the man known as “Syd.”
Stories of Strength, Joy, and Legacy
The service was led by Reverend Rupert Martin and featured moving tributes that painted a vivid picture of Lawrence’s vibrant life.
Family members and close friends, including George Orchard, Shauna Mighty, Bev Powell, Alice Lawrence, and Buster himself, all shared stories that showed the many sides of Syd: the athlete, the father, the friend, and the eternal optimist.
The order of service captured the essence of who he was—from a young bow-tied schoolboy to a cricket star in his prime, and later, a man facing his illness with bravery and humour.
A photo of Lawrence on his motorcycle graced the back page, a nod to one of his lifelong passions.
A Bond That Went Back to Boyhood
Jack Russell, who had known Lawrence since their under-13 playing days, shared a deeply personal tribute outside the church.
“We grew up together, we were teammates and friends for decades,” he said. “He was everything—just larger than life.
He did everything with full commitment, and played his cricket that way too.
It’s a tough day for all of us, but he’ll never be forgotten.”
Russell’s words echoed what many felt: that Lawrence wasn’t just a teammate, he was family to those who played alongside him.
One Last Journey, One Last Celebration
After the church service, Lawrence’s final journey took him to Westerleigh Crematorium, followed by a reception at a place he loved deeply—Gloucestershire CCC’s ground on Nevil Road.
It was a fitting end for a man who gave so much to the club, the sport, and everyone lucky enough to know him.
Remembering Syd the Way He Lived—All In
David “Syd” Lawrence wasn’t just a cricketer.
He was a personality, a powerhouse, and a passionate soul who brought energy to every room and every pitch.
He gave everything 100 percent, lived at full speed, and made a difference far beyond cricket.
Though he’s gone, his spirit will echo through the halls of Gloucestershire CCC, through the memories of his friends and fans, and through the legacy of courage he showed during his final year.
Syd Lawrence may have played only five Tests for England—but he won the hearts of thousands. And that’s a record no one can take away.
