James Ernest Lawton Jr.

James Ernest Lawton Jr. passed away on February 5, 2022, at the age of 71, in San Antonio, Texas. His long-term battle with diabetes and renal failure showed his courage, tenacity, and strength in facing life challenges. Despite the pain, James remained committed to living every day fully; loving his wife and children; and caring for those that he loved.

James grew up in El Paso, Texas. He was the oldest of five children, and the only boy. He served as a Staff Sergeant in the U.S. Army and completed a tour of duty in Vietnam. He loved fishing, hunting, grilling, gardening, working on cars, collecting and building model airplanes and helicopters, flying drones, collecting toy racing cars, and watching his favorite movies and tv shows. He always dreamed of traveling to space and living on Mars.

He is survived by his wife, Earnestine; his children James (and his wife Lisa), Jacqueline, and Jennifer (and her husband Randy); his sisters Jennice and Ramona; his grandchildren Jadelynn and Selena; and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his father and mother, James and Verdell Lawton and his sisters Charlotte Lawton and Beverly Sapp.

A private memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Kidney Fund and Association of Diabetes Care and Education Specialists.