Lawrence Lewis Jelks Sr.

It is with deep sadness that the family of Lawrence "Larry" Lewis Jelks Sr. announces his peaceful passing on July 4, 2026. Larry fought with immense courage, holding on for as long as he could, before finally finding peace, passing away at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center in Baltimore, Maryland. Born on January 15, 1965, in Baltimore, Larry’s life was deeply shaped by the trials and grief he endured. Yet, despite these obstacles, he loved his family fiercely and unconditionally. Larry was the life of every room he walked into. He will forever be remembered for his boastful, joyous spirit, his infectious laughter, and the way he could instantly light up a room by dancing. His vibrant energy during those years remains an enduring treasure for those who loved him. Larry is survived by his wife (separated), Cindy Jelks; his four children, Steven (Tiffany) Jelks, Amanda (Justin) McKinney, Lawrence Jelks Jr., Mindy Erskine; his ten grandchildren; his sister, Loretta (Richard) Haas; Genevieve (Jerome) Gissentanner, and his brother, Thomas (Barbara) Jelks. A celebration of Larry's life will be held on Saturday, July 11th, 2026, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. at Bowleys on the Bay (800 Chester Rd., Middle River, MD 21220). Family and friends are invited to gather in the sand to remember a man who loved the best he can. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that expressions of sympathy take the form of donations to the American Heart Association in Larry's memory.