James "Jim" Allen Lawson

James “Jim” Allen Lawson, 77, of Oklahoma, passed away on November 18, 2024. Jim was born on October 16, 1947, in Binger, Oklahoma, to Strawn William Lawson and Ollie Mae Wright Lawson. Growing up as the middle child among six brothers and two sisters, Jim learned early the value of family and camaraderie. His strong sense of duty and service would define much of his life.

At the age of 20, Jim enlisted in the United States Marines, where he proudly served as a Radio Operator during the Vietnam War from 1967 to 1969. His dedication to his country continued throughout his life, and in the 1980s, Jim joined the Army National Guard, where he served in the Gulf War during Operation Desert Storm in 1991.

In 1972, Jim married Sherry Nell Trotter, and together they raised two children, Lindsay and Josh, creating a foundation of love and support. In 2007, Jim found love again when he married Jan Dillbeck. Their life together was filled with joy and companionship until her untimely passing in 2022.

Jim was a man of simple pleasures, finding joy in the stories of Sci-Fi and Western films, especially the classic black-and-white Westerns. He was an avid reader, often lost in the pages of Sci-Fi novels or the adventurous tales of Louis L'Amour. Above all, Jim cherished his family, spending countless hours with his children, five grandsons, and seven great-grandchildren (with one on the way), imparting wisdom, laughter, and love.

Jim is preceded in death by his wife Jan, his parents Strawn and Ollie, his brothers Glen, Bob, and Robin, and his sister Patricia Fitzpatrick. He leaves behind a legacy of love, courage, and resilience that will be remembered fondly by all who knew him.

Those left to honor and cherish his memory include his daughter Lindsay Manuel and her husband Kyle of Edmond, OK; his son Josh Lawson and his wife Melinda of Norman, OK; his brothers Hank, Rick, and Randy Lawson; his sister Phyllis Morton; grandchildren Travis Barras and his partner Savannah, Colby Fitzgerald and his wife Rebeca, Connor Lawson and his partner Harley, Owen Lawson, and Garett Fitzgerald; as well as seven great-grandchildren, with one more on the way. Jim also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, and extended family, all of whom were blessed to know him.

A memorial service for James will be held Saturday, November 23, 2024 at 10:00 AM at Primrose Funeral Service, 1109 North Porter Ave, Norman, OK 73071.