Thomas Lawson

Thomas J. Lawson, 91, of Poplar Bluff, Missouri, passed away Monday, Dec. 4, 2023, at Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center.

Tom was born on June 7, 1932, to Earnest and Beulah (Berry) Lawson in Coon Island, Missouri. He married Jeane Sue Pridy on Nov. 26, 1953, in Poplar Bluff, Missouri.

Tom served in the Missouri National Guard for several years. He retired as Superintendent of Hazelwood School District in 1988. He then went on to serve as the Poplar Bluff City Manager for 12 years. Tom was a pillar in the Poplar Bluff community and served on many committees and organizations throughout the years. Tom was a long-time member of First Baptist Church of Poplar Bluff. He enjoyed golfing, reading, and even writing poetry for his close family and friends on special occasions. Tom’s greatest joy was spending time with his family.

Tom is survived by his wife of 70 years, Jeane Lawson; one daughter, Terry (Nick) Gasaway; six grandchildren, Nancy (Brian) Cathey, Susan (Ron) Zartman, Rob (Michele) Gasaway, Ann (Matt) McClanahan, Tara (Luke) Bealor, and Thomas (Mike Munaco) Gasaway; 11 great-grandchildren; along with numerous extended family members and friends.

Tom was preceded in death by one brother, Deloy Lawson.

Visitation will be held from 10:30 a.m.- noon Saturday, Dec. 9, 2023, at Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services. Funeral service will follow beginning at noon with Pastor Brandon Spain officiating. Burial will take place at Memorial Gardens Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made to the Alzheimer’s Association.

Cotrell Willow Ridge Funeral & Cremation Services is proud to serve the family and friends of Mr. Thomas Lawson. Online condolences can be made at www.cwrfcs.com.