Walter Lawson, Sr.

Walter Lawson, Sr., age 92, departed this life on January 30, 2019 peacefully with his loving daughter, Marsha, by his side.

Walter was born March 22, 1926 in Crystal, West Virginia to the late Brady and Thelma Lawson.

He was preceded in death by his wife of 46 years, Gaynel, two brothers, Frank Wilson and Robert Lawson; two sisters, Virginia Lee and Margaret Carter; and two grandchildren, Walter Douglas and Gloria LaDawn.

Left to cherish his memory are his three sons, Walter Jr. (Brenda), James (Odessa), and Michael (Roxanne); two daughters, Gail and Marsha; one aunt, Pauline Jones; grandchildren, Starla, Trevor, Jasmine, Gloria (Kenneth), James Jr., Michael Jr. (Kameron) and Nicole; great grandchildren, Mykel, Cidney, Samaria, MyKalia and Michael III; and great-great granddaughter, Mylie along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives and his best buddy Brandi.

Walter graduated from Bluestone High School in Bramwell, West Virginia and shortly after was drafted into the Army Air Corp where he was an aircraft mechanic. He also discovered his passion for cooking while serving. He was honorably discharged in December, 1946.

He returned to work at American Coal Company in Crane Creek, which later became Pocahontas Fuel Company and finally Consolidated Coal Company (CONSOL).

After 44 years, Walter retired as foreman from Crane Creek Tipple at age 56. He continued to work for CONSOL Coal at the Alexander Lodge in Bastian, Virginia until 2016.

Walter joined VFW post 3112 Black Rock in the early 1970’s. He served in various offices in the post including Quarter Master and Commander. He also held offices on the district level and later became West Virginia State Commander in 1988-1989. He also held several National Appointments during his time with the VFW.

Walter was an active member of the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church where he served as Chairman of the Deacon Board, trustee, Sunday School Superintendent and custodian. He was also lovingly referred to as an associate member of Macedonia Baptist Church in Dayton, OH.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to the Pilgrim Missionary Baptist Church Deacon Board, P.O. Box 560, Montcalm, WV 24737.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Saturday, February 9, 2019 at Cravens-Shires Funeral Home, 3431 Coal Heritage Road, Bluefield, WV 24701 with Rev. Arnel Churchwell officiating and Rev. Walter Lawson, Jr. delivering the Eulogy. Interment will follow at Restlawn Memorial Gardens, Bluefield, WV where the Mercer County Veterans Honor Guard will conduct graveside rites. Viewing will be held from Noon until time of service.