Deacon Ronald Louis Lawrence Celebrates Surprise 80th Birthday Celebration

On Sunday, March 15, 2026, the Institute for the preservation of African-American Music and Arts (IPAMA), 3200 W. Hampton Ave., recently hosted the 80th birthday celebration of Deacon Ronald Lawrence. Born in Milwaukee, Wisconsin he attended Milwaukee’s West division high school in 1963, now Milwaukee School of the Arts.

Shortly after graduation, he enlisted and served in the United States Air Force. Ronald was a trailblazer in the state of Wisconsin. He became the first African-American real estate broker at Wauwatosa Realty. Recognizing the barriers, minority, professional faced, he helped strengthen opportunities in the industry and served as president of the Milwaukee Realist Association for several years.

Ronald is married to his wife Lillian Lawrence who served as a Mequon police and fire Commissioner. They have one daughter Tiffini. Ron and Lillian founded Ebony Realty and construction later Ebony construction LLC. Ron serves on the board of Deacons at the Holy Redeemer Church Of God In Christ. More than 100 guests were in attendance to celebrate his 80th birthday. Ronald received a resolution from the Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers.