Leonard James Lawson

Len was born to Catherine and Charles Lawson in South Amboy, New Jersey in January, 1943. He was an army veteran with three post-secondary degrees: a BS in Mathematics from St. Bonaventure University, an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh, and a JD from Seton Hall University. People who knew Len would not be surprised that he scored in the 99th percentile on the LSAT, although he never shared this with anyone.

Before completing law school, while working full time, he met his wife, Tongyoy. They married in 1975 after adventures traveling across the US and Thailand. Len and Tongyoy enjoyed entertaining friends, playing cards, dancing, and singing. They could often be found cultivating a gigantic lush green garden in the backyard of their New Jersey home.

Len worked for the New Jersey Office of Legislative Services for thirty years and retired as the First Legislative Counsel. His opinions were integral in baring smoking from public buildings and his opinion regarding the dangers of Political Action Committees was cited in a book published in 2017.

He had many interests including golf, model airplanes, science, politics, baseball, basketball, comedy, reading, walking, and doing anything with his family. He was an incredibly devoted father, traveling hours just to watch his daughters perform or play sports in college and often crafting witty emails and letters to keep in touch. He devoted all his heart to caring for his wife and two daughters. Len’s logic, love, and compassion guided his every decision.

Len is survived by his wife, Tongyoy Lawson; two daughters Lena Lawson and Liza Lawson Risoldi; his grandson, Luke Lawson; his son-in-law, Adam Risoldi; and an older brother, Robert Lawson.

In lieu of flowers donations may be made to:

Brain and Behavior Research Foundation

https://tinyurl.com/BBRF-Donate-LJL

Alzheimer’s Association

https://tinyurl.com/ALZ-Donate-LJL