John Walter Lawson

John Walter Lawson, 88, of Fredericksburg, passed away peacefully on Sunday, April 14, 2024.

A proud graduate of the Kentucky Military Institute in 1953, John remained deeply connected to his alma mater, actively participating in the alumni association. He enjoyed many school reunions both at the main campus near Louisville, Kentucky, and the winter campus in Venice, Florida. He furthered his education at Georgetown College (KY), graduating in 1957.

In 1959, John's life took a new trajectory as he answered the call to serve his country. He attended Naval OCS, becoming a commissioned officer in the United States Navy. During his tenure, Ensign Lawson pursued advanced studies in Technology of Management at George Washington University and American University. His service was marked by dedication and distinction, earning him several accolades including the Vietnam Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation, Combat Action Ribbon, and Vietnam Campaign Medal. He was honorably discharged as a Lieutenant in 1970, having completed training in Communications School, Mine Warfare School, and Underwater Swimmers School.

Transitioning from military service, John embarked on a successful career with the United States Postal Service, retiring in 1990. His commitment to public service continued as he began consulting for the US Department of Agriculture graduate school.

John's faith was a guiding force throughout his life. A former member and deacon of Columbia Baptist Church in Falls Church, Virginia, he later joined Fredericksburg Baptist Church after relocating to Fredericksburg from Vienna, Virginia. Actively involved in various church ministries including Sunday School, Sunday morning greeting, and the Micah Ministry, John exemplified generosity in his community.

He is survived by his loving wife of 67 years, Mary Wayland Smith Lawson; his son, John David “Jay” Lawson (Donna); his daughters, Mary Elizabeth “Beth” Warnock (Ted) and Emily Hill (Phil);his grandchildren, Amanda Kate DiDonato (Noah), Andrew Robert Lawson (Becca), Hillary Hill, Betsy Hill, and Olivia Hill; and his, great-grandchildren Bennett Waylon DiDonato, Emerson Josephine DiDonato, and Logan Moss-Hill. John was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph Kyle Lawson, Sr. and Louise Stephenson Lawson Brooks; his brothers Joseph Kyle Lawson, Jr., Karl Raymond Lawson, and Jimmy Clark Lawson; and his son-in-law, Carl Eugene McCreary.

John will be remembered for his integrity, his dedication to family and country, and his profound impact on those fortunate enough to have known him. His legacy of service, kindness, and generosity will continue to inspire for generations to come.

The family will receive friends from 6 to 8 p.m. at Covenant Funeral Service, 10830 Patriot Hwy, Fredericksburg, VA 22408 on Thursday, May 16, 2024. A Celebration of Life will be held 11 a.m. on Friday, May 17, 2024, at the funeral home chapel with a reception immediately following at Fredericksburg Baptist Church, 1019 Princess Anne Street Fredericksburg, VA 22401.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The Gary Sinise Foundation, PO Box 40726, Nashville, TN 37204. In addition, donations may also be made to Micah Ministries, P.O. Box 3277, Fredericksburg, VA 22402.