Christel (McIntyre) Lawrence, 53, of North Miami, Oklahoma and formerly of Fordsville, Kentucky, passed away March 25, 2026 at Miami Integris Hospital. 

She was born December 5,1972 to Edgar and Becky McIntyre. She was a schoolteacher for 18 years, having earned her master’s degree from Western Kentucky University. She was a member of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church.

Christel had a deep love for sports and was a devoted fan of UK and Razorbacks. She found joy in life’s simple pleasures- caring for her plants, watching the birds, and getting lost in a good book. An accomplished cook and baker, she often joked that she “cooked for an army”, always making sure no one left her table hungry.

Her faith was her guiding light in life, and her children were truly her world. Christel was a friend to all. She had a special way of connecting with people, making everyone feel seen, valued, and loved. She built friendships wherever she went- many of which quickly became like family. Always willing to lend a hand, she saw the good in everyone and left a lasting impression on all who knew her.

Along with her parents, she is survived by her children Alex (Dontrell) Barker, Tyler Kirk, Carly Kirk; granddaughter Kynlee Barker; sisters Carrie (Joey) Tindle and Shannon Hall; brothers Robert (Tammy) McIntyre and Joshua (Tabitha) McIntyre; and many beloved nieces and nephews.

A funeral service will be held at 3pm Friday, April 3 at Pleasant Grove Baptist Church in Fordsville with burial to follow in Pleasant Grove Cemetery. Visitation will be from 11am until service time Friday at the church. Geary Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.