Roll Call Tribute

Lawrence Ervin Brockman, Jr.
September 30, 1932 - March 13, 2021

Lawrence Ervin Brockman Jr., age 88, passed away peacefully on March 13, 2021. He was born September 30, 1932, in Houston, TX to Lawrence Ervin Brockman Sr. and Opal Pauline Brittain. He moved to Bay City, Tx in 1941 where he lived until he left for college. 

He married his wife of 65 years, Bernadette Rose Gassen, in 1956. They lived in many different locations throughout the country while he was serving as an officer in the U.S. Air Force.  They settled in Richardson, Texas in 1980.  Together, they raised 5 children: Susan Brockman of Heber City, UT, Ken Brockman of Plano, TX, Stephen Brockman (Cheri) of Miamisburg, OH, Bill Brockman (Trish) of Wylie, TX, and Anne Staley (Jay) of Wylie, TX. He is also survived by 13 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and 1 gg-grandson.  He is preceded in death by his parents and sister Ardeth Keathley. 

Lawrence graduated from Bay City High School in 1951, then continued his education at Texas A&M, where he earned an undergraduate degree in Industrial Technology in 1956. He was commissioned as an officer by the Air Force directly after college.  He held many positions during his 26 years of service to his country.  He was a Lt. Colonel, Commander, Vice Commander, and Deputy Director in Contract Management that took him around the world.  He received multiple decorations and medals during his service, including the National Defense Medal. 

He joined Rockwell International Corporation in Richardson, TX in 1981, where he managed subcontracts and advanced programs until he retired in 1994.   

Lawrence was a generous soul with a great sense of humor who was full of laughter.  He loved to spend time with his family, work in his yard, and travel with his sweet Bernadette.  Larry seldom missed an Aggie football game and could cuss with the best. He also looked forward to the occasional trip to the casino and enjoyed dining out at his local favorite, Besa’s restaurant. He was well-liked by neighbors and locals in the community and will be missed by many. His final written request to his family is: “HAVE FUN Y'ALL!”

Funeral services will be held Monday, April 5, at Ted Dickey Funeral Home, 2128 18th Street, Plano, TX.  The viewing will be held from 10:00-11:30and the service will begin at 11:30. Burial and graveside service will be at the Dallas National Cemetery and will be for the immediate family due to current restrictions