Joseph Wayne Lawson

Joseph Wayne Lawson February 26, 1946 – May 27, 2023 While the family chose to grieve privately at the time of his passing, they now share this tribute in honor of Wayne’s life and legacy. J. Wayne Lawson, 77, of Orlando, Florida, passed away on May 27, 2023, after a brave battle with cancer. Born on February 26, 1946, in the Bristol, Virginia/Tennessee area, Wayne was the son of the late Joseph Hendricks Lawson and Grace Wilson Lawson. A lifelong truck driver and hardworking provider, he took great pride in his career behind the wheel and later fulfilled a dream of running his own one-truck operation before retiring. Wayne married the love of his life, Pamala (“Pam”), and together they celebrated 55 years of marriage. His love for Pam was absolute and unwavering; their partnership was the foundation of his life. Early in their marriage, they relocated to Florida, where they raised their sons, Joe and Michael, spending most of those years in southwest Florida. In 2011, they moved to Orlando to help care for Michael’s first child—Wayne and Pam’s fourth grandchild—and stayed to support the arrival of their fifth grandchild. They remained devoted grandparents to all. Family was Wayne’s greatest joy. He is survived by his wife Pam; his eldest son, Joe—who, with his first wife Hope, is the proud father of Forrest, Hunter and Skylar, and who later remarried Jessica and gained a stepson, Connor—and his son Michael and Michael’s wife Eryn and their sons Grayson and Andrew. He is also survived by many extended family members and dear friends who will miss his gentle spirit and unwavering love for family. Wayne was preceded in death by his parents and, following his passing, by his sisters Lyndia Marie Lawson Thornton (1941–2025) and Gladys “Brandy” Eve Lawson Moynahan (1950–2025). A man of simple tastes, Wayne never needed much beyond a comfortable home and the company of those he loved. He was devoted to his family, cherished his pets, and would do anything for his loved ones. He was happiest riding motorcycles, spending time with Pam, and watching his children and grandchildren grow. His unwavering love for Pam, his children and his grandchildren will remain a guiding light for them. Though he is deeply missed, Wayne’s family takes comfort in knowing that his legacy lives on through the family he cherished and the countless memories they will carry with them for years to come.

Joseph Wayne Lawson

February 26, 1946 - May 27, 2023