Carol Marolyn Lawson, our beloved mother, entered peacefully into rest on Wednesday, April 17, 2024, at home with her loved ones in Urbana, MD. She leaves behind a remarkable legacy of love, compassion, and unwavering strength that will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing her.
Carol was born on September 25, 1950, in St. Elizabeth, Jamaica and affectionately nicknamed, "Pretty." She was raised by her paternal grandmother, Edith Lawson, whom she lived with in Kilmarnock, St. Elizabeth until she moved to Montego Bay to live with her father, Richard Lawson Sr. and bonus mom, Daphne Lawson. Her legacy of love and compassion were instilled in her by Edith at an early age which she carried with her throughout her life.
Carol attended St. James High School eventually transferring to Harrison Memorial High School, where she graduated. After high school, Carol attended West Indies College, renamed Northern Caribbean University (NCU), a premier Seventh Day Adventist University in the Caribbean. She continued her education and graduated from Duff's Business College in Kingston, Jamaica. She eventually earned a master’s degree from the University of Maryland, University College. Carol worked in the hospitality industry. She continued in that industry after migrating to the United States and eventually transitioned to finance where she worked for Fannie Mae for over 30 years. She also worked at Marriott before moving to the pharmaceutical industry, where she worked for AstraZeneca.
Carol married Kelbourne "Kelly" Codling and they welcomed their daughter, Tracia "Trish" Marolyn Codling (Debnam). Although Kelly and Carol divorced, the families remain close. She went on to meet Donald Williams. During their union, they welcomed their son, Warren Williams. As a mother, Carol was unparalleled. She poured her heart and soul into nurturing Trish and Warren, always putting their needs above her own. Her love knew no limits or conditions, and her devotion was unwavering.
We affectionately nicknamed her "Cocoa" for her beautiful cocoa brown complexion that always radiated. Despite her best efforts to not make it stick, the love behind the name was undeniable and quickly grew into an infectious term of endearment, not just with her children, but her grandchildren and friends as well. She was and will remain their rock, their confidante, and their biggest cheerleader. No matter the obstacles, Carol always found the joy in life. Her incredible smile brightened any space she entered. She showed us what strength, grace and dignity looks like in the face of life’s perils and we are forever grateful. Her lessons of finding joy in the simple things, of finding the positive in any adversaries we face, and remaining hopeful are priceless tools we will carry forward in her honor.
Beyond her role as a mother, Carol was a cherished friend, a pillar of her community, and a beacon of hope for those in need. She dedicated her life to making a difference, spreading love and joy wherever she went through her love of music and caring for her beautiful orchids. She loved gardening and enjoyed watching all her beautiful plants flourish. Her generosity knew no bounds, and her impact will be felt for generations to come. Carol was a faithful member of The People's Community Baptist Church for almost 30 years where she sang in the choir. Her unwavering faith proved to be one of her greatest strengths.
Though our hearts are heavy with grief, we take solace in knowing that Carol is at peace, surrounded by love in the embrace of the angels. Her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her, and her legacy will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she touched.
As we bid farewell to our dear mother and friend, let us celebrate the beautiful life she lived and the profound impact she had on the world. Her love will continue to guide her children, grandchildren (Sydney, Kelli, and Cayden) and her many friends through life's journey, providing comfort and strength in times of need. She may no longer be with us in body, but her spirit will live on forever in our hearts.
Rest in peace, Cocoa. You will be dearly missed, but your love will live on in us forever.
A visitation for Carol will be held Friday, May 10, 2024 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM at The People's Community Baptist Church, 31 Norwood Road, Silver Spring, Maryland 20905, followed by a funeral service at 11:00 AM.
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