Kenneth Wayne Lawson

It is with heavy hearts and deep gratitude for a life well-lived that we announce the passing of Kenneth Wayne Lawson, who departed this world peacefully at home on June 8, 2026, after a valiant months-long battle with bone marrow cancer. Born January 13, 1936, in Houston, Texas, Kenneth was the beloved son of the late George Wilburn and Annie Mae Lawson. Kenneth’s life was a testament to love, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. He was predeceased by his parents, as well as his brothers Bobby Gene, Lee Doyle "Pete," and George Jr. "Junior" Lawson. He leaves behind his cherished wife of Iona of 61 years who stood by his side through every joy and challenge since they exchanged vows on June 4, 1965 at the First Christian Church in Houston, Texas. Kenneth was a devoted father to his children, Michelle, Victor (Kim), and Clay (Mimi), and a proud grandfather to Charlie and David Frawley; Wesley and Benton Lawson; and Travis, Blake, and Shelby Lawson. His family was his world, and he was theirs, providing guidance, wisdom, and unconditional love. The family extends a heartfelt thank you to his niece Marie Jacinto for her kindness and support. A lifelong native Houstonian, he grew up in East Houston on Dockal Road before becoming a graduate of Charles Bender High School in Humble, Texas, Class of 1954, where he served as class president, FFA secretary, and captain of the track team. Kenneth pursued higher education at the University of Houston, taking night classes studying engineering while working full time at the family business, The Lawson Company, Inc. Upon his father retiring in 1974, Kenneth was left in charge of the shop with his brother Pete at his side. Kenneth retired in 2023 after an impressive 70+ years, leaving a legacy of hard work, ingenuity, and commitment. Kenneth answered the call of duty by enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps reserves in October 1959, serving in the reserves until 1966. His sense of duty and honor extended beyond his career and military service, as he was a longtime member of Kingwood Methodist Church for more than 50 years, where he embodied the principles of faith and community service. An avid walker and bike rider around "The Loop" in Kingwood, Texas, Kenneth enjoyed playing tennis and never missed an opportunity to stop by a local produce stand or bakery. He loved taking family trips around Texas and solo trips well into his 80's to Colorado to catch a quick glimpse of the Rockies, breathe in that mountain air and escape the ever-present Texas summer heat. He was known for his limitless generosity, supporting countless individuals and groups in their pursuit of higher education and promotion of Christian values. A deep thinker and prolific “author of thoughts”, his commentaries spanned topics from the origins of humanity to health, exercise, and spirituality. As we bid farewell to Kenneth, we remember his enduring spirit and the love he imparted to all who knew him. His family shares a special message from Kenneth: "If you are not giving, you are not living". Kenneth's life will be celebrated at a service on June 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at Brookside Cemetery - Chapel of the Chimes, located at 13401 Eastex Fwy., Houston, TX, 77039. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Kenneth's memory to the Methodist Children's Home in Waco, Texas, via the donation URL: [https://www.mch.org/donate/]. Kenneth Wayne Lawson's legacy is one of love, faith, and unwavering generosity. His memory will forever be cherished by those who had the privilege of knowing him. May he rest in eternal peace.