Brian Keith Lawson
Brian Keith Lawson Obituary
In loving memory of Brian Keith Lawson, 56, of Axton, VA.
Brian, a beloved father, husband, papaw, and devoted friend, passed away on September 4th, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia.
Born on February 4th, 1970, to Jo Anne (Ronnie) Earles and Thomas (Bonnie) Lawson, Brian dedicated many years of his life to serving and protecting others as a Veteran of the United States Army and Henry County Sheriff’s Officer. His career was more than a job—it was a calling. He served his community with courage, integrity, compassion, and a strong sense of duty. After 29 years of faithful service, he retired with the respect and gratitude of the people he worked so hard to protect.
While his badge was an important part of who he was, his greatest pride was his family. To his children, he was simply daddy, to his grandchildren he was papaw, and to his beautiful wife he was stud muffin—the person they could count on, the one who offered guidance, protection, love, and a lifetime of memories. He taught his family the importance of being strong, kind, honest, and always standing up for what is right.
Known in his family for his infectious laugh, quick wit, and endless supply of jokes, Brian brought light into every room he entered. Whether he was scuba diving, serving on Emmaus Walks, hunting, or making crosses, he approached life with a generous heart and a love for the Lord that was evident.
Even during his battle with leukemia, Brian showed incredible strength, courage, and faith. He faced every day with determination and continued to think of the people he loved. His strength, humor, kindness, love, and unwavering faith will remain in the hearts of everyone who knew him. He was a proud member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Axton, Virginia.
He leaves behind his loving wife, Brenda Parcell Lawson, of 35 years; his children Jenna (Drew) Carawan and Dylan (Brooke) Lawson; his grandchildren Natalie, Elijah, Juliette, and Whittyn; his sisters Anita (Bruce) Carter, Lori (Wes) Colemen, Rhonda (Bobby) East, Donna (Donnie) Shough, and Tammy (Doug) Fain; as well as countless other family, friends, fellow officers, and members of his community who were blessed to know him. He was preceded in death by his dad, Ronnie Dale Earles; grandfather, Jack Earles; grandparents Aubrey and Virginia Haley, and Nick and Lucinda Lawson.
A funeral service will be held on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Freedom Baptist Church, 790 Irisburg Road, Axton, Virginia 24054 at 11:00 AM. Interment will follow at the Earles Family Cemetery, 273 Collins Road, Axton, Virginia 24054. The family will receive friends on Tuesday, September 8, 2026 from 5:00-7:00 PM at Freedom Baptist Church.
In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made in memory of Brian Lawson to one of his passions, the Dan River Emmaus Walk, 16 Lawless Drive, Fieldale, Virginia. Donations may also be made via CashApp at $DREmmaus25 or PayPal at danriveremmauswalk@gmail.com. A special thank you to the team at UVA Hospital and Cancer Center.
*Obituary humbly submitted by the family
Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the family. Online condolences may be made at www.wrightfuneralservices.net.
