Anson Lawson's Obituary
Anson Bryant Lawson, 62, of Columbia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 2, 2025, at the University of Missouri Hospital, surrounded by his beloved family.
A memorial service to celebrate Anson’s life will be held on Saturday, January 18, 2025, at 1:00 P.M. at St. Luke United Methodist Church in Columbia. Friends and family are invited to gather for visitation at the church from 12:00 P.M. to 1:00 P.M.
Born on November 29, 1962, in Columbia, Missouri, Anson grew up in the embrace of a loving family. He attended Columbia Public Schools, where his journey of learning began.
At an early age, Anson accepted Christ and was later baptized, remaining steadfast in his faith throughout his life. He was a devoted member of Chosen Generation Ministries and later attended Christian Fellowship Church in Columbia.
In August 2005, Anson entered into holy matrimony with Norma Ann Mercado, a union they shared until 2019.
Anson found joy and purpose in his work, including time at Tyson Foods and various other roles, always contributing with dedication and pride.
In his leisure, Anson enjoyed life’s simple pleasures—listening to jazz music, walking, and biking through town. Above all, he cherished time with family and friends, creating memories that will live on in their hearts.
Anson’s kind and gentle spirit was felt by all who knew him. His ever-present smile and uplifting nature brightened the lives of everyone he encountered. He was a proud father, grandfather, brother, uncle, cousin, and friend whose love and generosity left an indelible mark on those around him.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Luther Lee Dawson Sr. and Erna Mae Lawson Carter, and his brother, Donald Dawson.
Anson leaves behind a family who deeply cherishes his memory: his daughter, Jasmine Buckner (Vonzelle Buckner); granddaughters Jamyia Buckner and Maleigha Buckner, all of Columbia, Missouri; brothers Lorenzo Lawson (Beatrice Lawson) of St. Louis, Missouri, Luther Lee Dawson Jr. (Lavern Hick) of Kansas City, Missouri, Vincent Gregory Dawson of Hannibal, Missouri, and Robert Dawson of Columbia, Missouri; sisters Jamesetta Jackson (Steven L. Jackson) of Columbia, Missouri, Linda Carol Dawson of Columbia, Missouri, Sylvia Louise Lee (William Lee) of Romulus, Michigan, and Beatrice Dawson.
He is also survived by his maternal uncle Harold Jerome Cross, maternal aunt Lisa Gay Cross, and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and dear friends.
Anson’s light, warmth, and love will be deeply missed but never forgotten.
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