Emmett Leon Lawson, 82, of Ridgeway, VA, passed away on Monday, September 18, 2023. He was born in Stuart, VA, April 22, 1941, to the late Thomas Johnson Lawson and Mattie Stovall Lawson.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters Elva Hazelwood, Carrie Rakes, Mary Holt, Peggy Williams, Opal Turner, Jewett Bullins and Vergie Lawson; and his brothers Hanson Lawson, Clarence Lawson and Bennie Lawson.
He is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Janice Marie Burney Lawson of Ridgeway, VA, his daughter Emily and Erik Nelson of Fairfax Station, VA and his son Thomas and Heather Lawson of Clover, SC. He was delighted with his grandchildren, Elizabeth Nelson, Catherine Nelson, Katie Lawson and Simon Lawson, and they were especially fond of his biscuits and gravy. He is also survived by in-laws, nieces, nephews and great nieces and nephews. Each of these were dearly loved and blessed by him.
Emmett worked as a Machine Operator, a Lab Technician and served on the Safety Committee before retiring from Dupont. Another of his almost lifelong professions was Butcher which he did for grocery stores, as well as independently, for farmers and hunters alike.
Although blessed with jobs that gave Emmett and his family a good life, his favorite “job” was farming and mowing. He did both almost to the very end and many have benefitted from his efforts. He became an EMT to volunteer with the Ridgeway Rescue Squad, served at the voting polls and helped set up the 911 system in Henry County. He also shared his garden and meats, mowed numerous yards and fields, served in summer church camps, provided engineering expertise and the list goes on and on.
If you knew Emmett, chances are that he helped you in some way. He did not come empty-handed and gave from his heart. God blessed him generously and he returned the favor to family, friends and strangers, thus serving His heavenly Father and his neighbor well.
Emmett’s Celebration of Life and Internment was held on Saturday, September 23, 2023, at Living Waters Outreach Ministry was officiated by Pastors Bud Sedwick, Curtis Stump and Travis Burney. Pallbearers who served Emmett’s family were as follows: Billy Corns, Dustin Harbour, Danny Lamberth, Joey Lamberth, Ryan Lawson and Jimmy Sands. Interment followed the service at Mountain View Cemetery. A visitation was held from 5:00 to 8:00 pm at Collins Funeral Home on Friday night September 22, 2023.
Collins Funeral Home, Bassett, Va. is serving the family.
To express condolences online, please visit www.collinsmckeestonebassett.com.
