Obituary

Tommy Gene Lawson

May 12, 1950 - April 1, 2026

Tommy Gene Lawson was born on May 12, 1950 in Independence, LA and was 75 years of age.  He was a native of Kentwood, LA and a resident of Amite, LA.  He graduated from Kentwood High School in 1968 and Southeastern Louisiana University in 1972.  Tommy passed away on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 at St. Tammany Parish Hospital in Covington, LA.  

He is survived by his wife, Becky Davis Lawson; daughter, Kristi Lynn Lawson; son, Todd Wayne Lawson (Morrow); 3 grandchildren, Harper Elizabeth Lawson, Thatcher Morrow Lawson, and Piper Marie Lawson; sister, Viola Mae Lawson Smith (Paul); mother-in-law, Imelda Finch Davis; brother-in-law, Dickie Davis (Kathleen); and numerous nieces and nephews. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas W. Lawson and Gladys Christine Miller Lawson; siblings, Virginia Louise Lawson, Margaret "Sissy" Allen Lawson Oliver, Bobby Lee Lawson and Thomas Malcolm Lawson; nephews, Barron Clay Davis and Roderick Wayne Chapman; niece, Julia "Judy" Ann Savoy; and father-in-law, Richard E. Davis, Sr. 

Ordained as a deacon in 1982, Tommy dedicated his life to serving the Kedron Baptist Church Community. A passionate educator, he spent 53 years teaching math, inspiring generations of students with his patience, wisdom, witty catchphrases and steady encouragement. His influence extended far beyond the classroom.

In addition to his career in education, Tommy worked at the Kentwood and Amite stockyards for over 50 years.  He was a beloved high school football, baseball and basketball coach.  Above all, he treasured his family and found his greatest joy in traveling with Becky, quiet conversations and celebrating life’s victories with Kristi, coaching Todd’s little league baseball games and watching his grandchildren play sports - rarely missing an opportunity to cheer them on. 

“Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Visitation at Kedron Baptist Church from 6:00PM until 9:00PM on Monday, April 6, 2026 and from 9:00AM until religious services at 11:00AM on Tuesday, April 7, 2026. Services conducted by Rev. Harrell Sharkey, Jr. Interment Kedron Cemetery, Amite, LA. 

Pallbearers will be Todd Lawson, Stevie Oliver, William Lawson, Mark Lawson, Marty Lawson, Kevin Morales, Seth Morales, and Michael Kazerooni.  Honorary Pallbearers are Perry Smith and Thatcher Lawson.

McKneely Funeral Home, Amite, in charge of arrangements.