Judith Lawson

August 20, 1929 - July 22, 2015
Judith Lawson


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Judith Lawson age 85, of Wilmington, died Wednesday, July 22, 2015. at the New Hanover Regional Medical Center.

Judith was born and raised in the Republic of Panama. A member of a prominent family, she was the daughter of Dr. Publio Vasquez, Chief Justice of the Supreme Court in Panama and professor of criminal law at the University of Panama.

Judith married her husband Jack D. Lawson on March 3,1951 in Panama City. They had a comfortable life living in Puerto Rico, Panama, Key Biscayne and ultimately retiring in McAllen, Texas. She was always active in the local community and supported many public school activities wherever she lived.

Judith was full of life and vitality, never knowing a stranger, she made friends everywhere she went. She was always on the go and it seemed like her motor was running 100% all the time. She loved sports, particularly golf and fishing where she spent much of her free time with friends and family pursuing those activities. She enjoyed cooking her native Panamanian dishes and spreading that culture wherever she went.

Judith traveled all over the world spreading joy and humor to everyone she met. She could bring a ray of light to the darkest hour and make you laugh just when you needed it the most. She will always be remembered for her beautiful smile and compassion towards all.

She is survived by her sons, Charles Lawson of Miami, FL. and David Lawson of Wilmington, NC.

Please share condolences and memories with the family by clicking on the “Sign Guest Book” tab above.

Wilmington Funeral & Cremation, 1535 S.41st Street Wilmington, NC 28403. 910.791.9099.


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  • August 02, 2015
    Viola McClure says:
    Charles, David and Stephany, sorry for your loss Judy and I were friends for such a long time, The distance never kept us away and for68 years we kept in touch by phone, exchanging cards. Judy I will miss you. RIP

  • August 03, 2015
    Peter & Regina Garcia says:
    Dear Dave, Regina and I share with you and your family our deepest sympathies for your loss. God Bless. Peter & Regina Garcia

  • July 28, 2015
    Etta Pace says:
    I enjoyed eating with your mother a few times when I volunteered on Wednesdays (Bible study leader) at LakeShore Commons. Her life story was a blessing and I am sorry her time with all of us was so short. Many at LakeShore told me how much they enjoyed her presence and joyful heart. Praying God's comfort on all of you during these difficult days.

  • July 29, 2015
    Sandy Collette says:
    My dear, sweet Judy, we will miss you so! We have shared two beautiful children...our David and Stephanie. It has been such a blessing for you, David and Charlie to come into our lives. We have had many good times and laughs together. I will never forget our trip to Las Vegas, sharing a room with you and the culmination of the trip....our children's wedding! I will watch over our children here on earth as I know you will be watching over them from heaven. I love you my sweet "mother in law" and will cherish you in my heart always!

  • July 29, 2015
    Yvette Ramirez says:
    Dear Dave and Charles. Judy was a close friend of my mother, Tita Lay and my aunt Lilia Santamaria. My memories of Judy have been a lifetime, not because we were fortunate to visit each other, but because they all kept in contact no matter the distance. True friendship. Her love for her sons was immeasurable. She always spoke of you both and kept us up to date with your accomplishments in life. And it allows us to have this closeness now to follow in her footsteps. Keeping the lines of friendship & communication open. Judy will be missed very much, but in my heart I know she is watching and guiding us all as I write this. RIP Judy and keep smiling.

  • July 29, 2015
    Bill Fitch says:
    My deepest sympathies go out to my friend Dave Lawson and his wife Steph and brother Charles on the death of their Mother Judy whom I have referred as Mom for almost as many years as I can remember. Some of my fondest memories of Judy include celebrating her birthdays with her. Champagne and wine flowed and much lobster and steak were devoured. I'll always remembered how welcome she made me in her home from the very first night I stayed with Dave when I was a boy of 16. I remember the somberness and the joy of services for Jack and the celebration of his life afterwards with the entire family and again the wine flowed. Seems to be a constant in my time spent with the Lawsons. And then there was Vegas and the crazy mad rush to City Hall to get a marriage license for Dave and Steph and then off to the little Chapel of the West for a midnight service. Sharing the excitement with Judy and gambling the night away and yes, drinking much wine together! I love and miss you very much mom and I take solace only in knowing that you are in a far better place than we.

  • July 29, 2015
    David Williams says:
    I only had the pleasure of meeting Mrs. Lawson a few times, but those touches created a lasting memory for me. Her vibrancy and exuberance had an impact on me. It was a real joy to see someone who truly enjoyed life. Thoughts and prayer to Dave, Stephanie and family. GO ASTROS!!!