Mr. Edward Lee Lawson

LAWSON, Mr. Edward Lee - Age 71, passed away Saturday, March 11, 2017 at The Oaks at Woodfield in Grand Blanc, MI. Funeral service 10:30 AM Friday, March 17, 2017 at Grace Emmanuel Baptist Church, 3502 Lapeer Rd., Rev. Dr. Marvin A. Jennings Sr. Host Pastor. Interment Great Lakes National Cemetery, G-4200 Belford Rd., Holly, MI. Mr. Lawson will lie in state in the Chapel of Lawrence E. Moon Funeral Home, 906 W. Flint Park Blvd., and may be viewed from 12:00 PM - 8:00 PM Thursday, with a Wake from 6:00 PM-8:00 PM. Mr. Edward Lee Lawson of Grand Blanc, Michigan was born September 24, 1945 in Utica, Mississippi, to the late Addie Mae Currie. The youngest of two children, he accepted Christ and was baptized at a young age. After finishing high school, Ed graduated from Utica Junior College and later earned an Associate Degree. He then moved north to Flint, Michigan in 1965 and started working on the assembly line at General Motors. Shortly thereafter, he was drafted to the United States Army where he was stationed at Fort Bliss in El Paso, Texas for two years. After an Honorable Discharge he returned to work at General Motors where he held several positions and was very active with UAW Local #599. After several promotions he retired as a Benefit Representative from General Motors in 2016 with over 51 years of dedicated service. He was loved and respected by many of his work colleagues because of his willingness to go above and beyond to meet their needs. In addition to offering solutions to problems and he was always willing to offer advice - both professional and personal. Ed was proud to be recognized as a charter member of Ebenezer Baptist Church, under the leadership of the late Reverend Clarence Knox. He helped this church grow to what is now known as Ebenezer Ministries. In 1973 he became a member of Pentecostal Tabernacle Church of God in Christ (COGIC). Ed faithfully served as the church administrator for over 40 years. In 1974 he became Deacon Lawson and under his financial leadership there were many accomplishments which included two mortgage burnings One when the church was paid off and the second after the addition of the Fellowship Hall. Deacon Lawson was influential in the purchase of several surrounding properties in the neighborhood to benefit the church. During all of his years of service, Deacon Lawson always had the church’s best interest at heart. He was truly one of the instrumental pioneers of Pentecostal Tabernacle Church Of God In Christ. Ed’s commitment didn’t stay within the walls of the church house, he exemplified a true spirit of service. Outside of work he was very active in the community, serving as a former delegate of the Democratic National Committee. Ed mentored many and was always willing to provide a helping hand as a true master of many trades. Ed lived the motto: "always do things decent and in order." Above all, his number one priority was his family. He prided himself on being dependable and a leader in his family. He truly honored God as the Head of the House. Ed met the love of his life - Rose and remained committed to her for over 50 years. He loved her and wanted to ensure her happiness by being a wonderful friend and husband. Unto this union three daughters were born. A proud father of five, Ed enjoyed attending family functions and was there to serve and provide for them as well. He was affectionately known as “Paw Paw” by all of his grandchildren and each of them gave him joy in their own unique and special way. Ed also adored and loved his extended family to include the Cooper, Thomas, and Dixon families. He never met a stranger or person in need that he wouldn't offer his help. In addition to faith and family, Ed looked forward to spending time with his friends. He shared some special times with Eddie Charles Fields, Donald Brown, and Bill Epps. Ed enjoyed spending time with his friends; whether attending his grandson Joshua’s sporting events, enjoying breakfast outings or just talking. He appreciated their love, support and friendship until GOD called him home. Mr. Edward Lee Lawson leaves to cherish his memory: a loving wife, Rose; 5 children, Valarie (Elijah) Paige, Refuge "RL" (Sharon) Hamilton, all of Utica, MS, Tania (Stacey) Henderson of Farmington Hills, MI, Kendra Lawson of Round Rock, TX and Shaela Lawson of Washington, DC; 7 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; a host of other relatives, special friends, and loved ones. Mr. Lawson was preceded in death by his mother Addie Mae Currie; grandparents, Henry and Bertha Lawson; and brother, William James Lawson.

Mr. Edward Lee Lawson

September 24, 1945 - March 11, 2017