Leonard E. Lawson

Leonard E. Lawson, 93, of Rockford, IL, passed away peacefully, Tuesday morning, November 16, 2021 at OSF St. Anthony Medical Center. Born February 19, 1928 in Russellville, AL, the son of Hugh and Mae (Johnson) Lawson. Leonard proudly served in the United States Army and United States Army Reserves for 7 years. He married his sweetheart, Betty McKelvy on December 6, 1949 in Russellville, AL. Leonard retired from National Lock after 30 years of service. He was a very family oriented man who enjoyed many family nights of poker. Leonard was a great horseshoe player, winning hundreds of trophies. He was a baseball coach and umpire for many seasons. Leonard was the past president of the Harry Morris School Board. He enjoyed gardening and loved baking delicious pies. He was the patriarch of our family and will truly be missed.

The family would like to thank the best neighbors ever Ron and Murna.

Leonard is survived by his children, Leonard W. (Barbara) Lawson of Berryville, VA, Lee (Ron Sam) Lawson of Oxnard, CA, Teresa (Ron) Colvin of Rockford, and Marlene (Dave Veitch) Lawson of Rochelle; grandchildren, Dayna, Jennifer, Erica, Lishya, Joshua, Tanya, Tiffany and Veronica; 21 great-grandchildren, numerous nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife Betty, sons Terry Lawson and Lambert Lawson, granddaughter Sabrina, grandson-in-law Luke Carmichael and 7 siblings.

A visitation will be held from 4-7 p.m., Monday, November 22, 2021 at Sunset Funeral Home, 8800 N. Alpine Rd, Machesney Park, IL 61115. A funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, November 23 at the funeral home. Entombment in Sunset Memorial Gardens. To share a condolence, please visit www.sunsetfhmemgardens.com.