Willard Lawson

James Willard Lawson was born September 30, 1939 in Wolfe Co., Kentucky and passed away September 22, 2026 at his residence in Verona, Kentucky at the age of 86.  He was the son of the late Charlie and Josephine Halsey Lawson.  

Willard was known to be a hard worker.  He was a farmer and a carpenter having built several houses in the area.  He was a dedicated member of the Sherman Full Gospel Assembly in Dry Ridge.  In his spare time he could often be found in the outdoors, especially fishing and hunting.  He was also a big sports fan, especially of his hometown teams, Kentucky Wildcats and Cincinnati Reds as well as NASCAR.  Willard's greatest joy came from spending time with his family, especially his grandchildren.  They will remember him for his tender and affectionate touch and how he cared so deeply for each of them.

On August 17, 1961 Willard was united in marriage to Ella Jean Smith Lawson, who preceded him in death on July 31, 2010.  In addition to his wife, Willard was preceded in death by a son, James Terry Lawson, and a daughter, Deine Lawson.

Willard is survived by a daughter: Freida (John) Perks of Verona; a daughter-in-law: Tina Lawson of Verona; seven grandchildren: Amanda (Michael) Reinhart, Kelly (Luke) Wolfinbarger, Candice (Marcus) Meiner, Jacklyn (Rickie) Epperson, Terry Lynn (Chris) Jump, Kerry (Matt) Monroe and Kaitlin (Ethan) Lawson; 15 great grandchildren; and 1 great great grandchild.

Visitation will be 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 at Hamilton-Stanley Funeral Home, 14635 Walton-Verona Rd., Verona, KY  41092.  Funeral services will be 1:00 PM, Friday, Sept. 25, 2026 at Hamilton-Stanley Funeral Home.  He will be laid to rest next to his wife in Napoleon Cemetery in Gallatin Co.