Lawson Williams Jr.

Lawson was the eldest of four children, born to the late Lawson Williams, Sr., and the late Daisy Belle (Williams) on July 1, 1932, in White Plains, NY. “Sonny”, as he was affectionately known, was the apple of his mother’s eye, and always concerned with making his family proud. Lawson attended elementary school in the White Plains Public School District until the 3rd grade when the family relocated to Chester, PA. There Lawson Sr. built the family home where Lawson lived until he graduated from Chester High School in 1950. The Chester Upland School District educated Lawson well, and it was there, with the loving guidance of strong parents and supportive church family from St. Daniel’s United Methodist Church, that he learned the value of hard work, making good choices, and building lifelong friendships.

Lawson, an excellent student, became interested in the sciences while at Chester High School and after graduating decided to further his education at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland. At Morgan State, Lawson decided to study Pharmacology, a major that was not offered at the time, prompting a transfer to Howard University. It was at Howard University that he met and courted Mary
Frances Moss was also a pharmacy student. Their courtship led to marriage on June 7, 1958, the day after she graduated. The following day, they left to drive across the country to Ft. Lewis, Washington where Lawson was stationed after being drafted into the Army. After Lawson served his country, he returned to Howard University and completed his pharmacy degree in 1963. Lawson and Mary remained in Washington, DC where they were blessed with four children, Lawson III, Carmen, Paula, and Jennifer. In 1971, Lawson moved his family to Silver Spring, MD.

Lawson had a long, steady career in retail pharmacy. You may have seen him at your local drug store like Co-op, Drug Fair or Dart Drug and Safeway, or Target if you went to the pharmacy. He had an excellent work ethic and was never late nor did he miss a day of work. He performed his job most efficiently. He was always kind and friendly to his customers and genuinely enjoyed his work until his retirement at the age of 75.

Lawson was a faithful church member of Colesville United Methodist Church. He enjoyed singing bass as a member of their Men’s choir and Gospel choir. He also participated in a neighborhood bible study group just for men who would meet at each other’s homes and fellowship together. Lawson was also a devoted member of the Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Silver Spring Alumni Chapter for 46 years and enjoyed attending their meetings, fundraisers, community service projects, and events, especially the annual Black & White Ball.

When Lawson was not working, he was likely doing “handyman” work or “tinkering” around the house. He could assemble, install, paint or repair anything. He always made sure his grass was cut and the yard looked nice and would not be happy with you if you walked through his grass. Lawson also enjoyed traveling with his wife and family and visited many places over the years. The family spent most summers visiting Cape May, NJ where Lawson and Mary had the house of their dream’s custom-built. Lawson also loved spending time with his grandchildren and great-grandchildren doing anything they wanted. He was affectionately referred to as “Pop-Pop”.

Lawson was also a good cook and was known for his famous “potato salad” and “apple pie”. He loved the holidays and entertaining family and friends and was always a gracious and hospitable host. He enjoyed walking or just relaxing on his porch or deck, reading his newspaper, especially when it was hot outside. He was also a Washington Redskins fan and a Nationals fan and even got the chance to
attend a few baseball games.

Lawson Williams Jr. made his transition to eternal rest on January 20, 2021, as the newly elected President and Vice President were celebrating victory, making history, and preparing to move into the highest positions in the land. As we prepared for a new administration, Lawson was also being readied for a transition as the Lord called him home to glory. He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Mary Moss Williams, and leaves to cherish his memory, his son, Lawson Williams, III (Karla) and daughters, Carmen Kemp, Paula Hamm, and Jennifer Williams; four grandchildren; Stephanie Kemp,
Rachel Kemp, Bryce Williams, Brandon Williams; three great-grandchildren, Keiara Lainez, Devin Crowder, and Ryah Crowder; sister, Georgina Warren; brothers James Williams and Charles Williams as well as a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives.