Gerald "Tom" Lawson

Gerald "Tom" Lawson 78, of Spartanburg, South Carolina, passed away at his residence on Thursday, February 15,2024 after battling a brief illness.

Tom was born on January 17, 1946, in Spartanburg, South Carolina to the late Mr. James and Mrs. Pearl Lawson. He was a proud business owner who founded Lawson's General Contractors Inc, for an impressive 57 years. Not only was Tom a successful businessman, but he also served his country with honor as a member of the Army and National Guard. His commitment to service extended further as a dedicated member of the American Legion post #28, Glendale Masonic Lodge, Shriners, Sons of Confederate Veterans and he also served on the Spartanburg County board of Education.  Known for his outgoing nature and genuine kindness, Tom was truly a people person. He never met a stranger and made friends wherever life took him. 

Beyond his professional achievements and service to his community, Tom found joy in various hobbies and interests. He was an avid traveler who explored all 50 states in the USA, and ventured to Europe, and South America. He cherished spending time in nature, camping, riding his golf cart, and most of all, being surrounded by his beloved family, and dogs as well as his "granddogs". Among Tom’s proudest accomplishments was his marriage of 58 years to his beloved wife Helen. Their love story serves as an inspiration to many, reflecting the depth of commitment and bond they shared throughout their lives together.

Tom leaves behind a legacy that will be carried on by those closest to him. He is survived by his devoted wife Helen Lawson; sons: Gerald Thomas Lawson Jr (Jamie) and Jason Bryant Lawson (Jan); sister Judy Howard; grandsons Jeb Thomas Lawson, and Derek Chad Parsons (Sondra), a granddaughter Jodi Lynn Lawson; as well as his cherished dogs Ava and Lizzie, and a host of nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by both parents, his father James Lawson, mother Pearl Lawson, brothers; William Lawson, Daniel Lawson, Albert Lawson, Ray Lawson and Earl Lawson, Sisters; Annie Ruth Bailey, Mary Alice Franklin, Joyce Freeman, and Linda Garner. 

A memorial service with Military and Masonic honors will be held to honor Tom's life, Saturday February 24,2024 at Morningside Baptist Church 897 South Pine Street Spartanburg, South Carolina 29302, at 11:00 AM followed by visitation. In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests donations to be made to the American Legion honor guard post #28 PO Box 391 Spartanburg, SC 29304, or Genitiva Hospice 905 E. Main Street Suite#2 Spartanburg, SC 29302, or Morningside Baptist Church 897 S. Pine Street Spartanburg, SC 29302.

JF Floyd North Church Street Chapel