Richard G. Lawson

Richard G. Lawson of Roanoke, Va., died on Wednesday, February 11, 2026.
Born on March 30, 1941, he was the son of the late Harry L. Lawson Jr. and Dorothy Towles Lawson of Roanoke. He is survived by his wife, Cheryl Bennet Lawson; stepdaughter, Elizabeth Bennet James; son, Richard Greene Lawson Jr.; brother, Thomas T. Lawson; sister, Linda L. Thornton; four grandchildren; and one great-grandchild. He was predeceased by his daughter, Nancy Dare Lawson.
Dick was CEO of H.L. Lawson & Son, Inc from 1983 to 2015, the company founded by his father and grandfather.
Dick attended Episcopal High School, graduated from Fork Union Military Academy, and from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He started his career in Roanoke with The Norfolk and Western and subsequently worked in real estate before joining the family business in 1981.
He will be remembered and missed for his optimistic and open attitude as well as his ability to make almost anyone laugh.
A memorial service will be held later this spring. Condolences may be shared at www.Oakeys.com.
Arrangements entrusted to Oakey’s Funeral Service – Roanoke Chapel, Downtown Roanoke, VA (540) 982-2100.