Tilden L. Lawson

Tilden Lucian Lawson, lovingly known as “T.L.” or “Terry,” age 89, passed away peacefully on December 12, 2025, under the loving and compassionate care of Hospice of Dayton, surrounded by his devoted family.

Tilden was born on November 28, 1936, in the hills of Wilder, Tennessee. In his early years, he was raised by his maternal grandmother, Phoebe Lawson—fondly known to him as “Mom”—and later guided into adulthood by his aunts and uncles. In 1948, he moved to Dayton, Ohio, where he was educated in Dayton Public Schools and would eventually build a full and meaningful life.

A lifelong learner, Tilden continuously pursued both formal and informal education. He earned numerous certifications in heating, air conditioning, and refrigeration and began his professional career in 1962 with several local businesses. He later retired in 1999 from Lennox Industries, where he served with distinction as a Territory Manager in Sales and Engineering.

Tilden was deeply committed to service and brotherhood. He was a proud member of the Free and Accepted Masons of Ohio (F&AM), serving as Master of St. John’s Lodge from 1979 to 1980. In 2010, he demitted to Alpha Lodge 729 in Kettering, Ohio. He was also a member of the Ancient Accepted Scottish Rite (A.A.S.R.) and the Antioch Shriners.

Beyond his professional and fraternal accomplishments, Tilden was known for his generous spirit and many talents. He was an avid golfer and proudly achieved three holes-in-one during his lifetime. Even after retirement, he continued giving back to his community by volunteering with the City of Kettering, participating in the Kettering Police Department’s Speed Watch program, and serving as a driver for elderly residents traveling to medical appointments. A self-taught musician, he found joy in singing and playing the piano and guitar. A man of deep faith, he pursued certificates and college-level coursework in Bible studies, always seeking spiritual growth.

Above all else, Tilden cherished his family. In 1965, he married his best friend and the love of his life, Cecile. Their 60 years of marriage were built on devotion, friendship, faith, and unwavering support for one another. He led a life rooted in love, steadfast commitment to his wife, children, grandchildren, and genuine care for others. He was a thoughtful friend who remembered the names of those he met, shared stories freely, offered a warm smile, and never missed an opportunity for kind conversation.

Tilden was preceded in death by his father, Lucian Stults, and his beloved grandmother, Phoebe Lawson.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 60 years, Cecile M. (Allen) Lawson; his children, Thomas J. Lawson, Sr. (Denise Lawson), and Teresa (Lawson) Young (Steve Young); and his cherished grandchildren, Thomas J. Lawson II, Max Lawson, Sam Lawson, Cori (Young) Luthman (Jacob Luthman) and Tyler Young. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, cousins, and extended family who will miss him dearly.

Visitation will be held Saturday, December 20, 2025, from 10:00–11:00 a.m. at Tobias Funeral Home, 3970 Dayton-Xenia Rd., Beavercreek, Ohio 45432. A funeral service will follow at 11:00 a.m., with burial at Miami Valley Memory Gardens, 1639 E. Lytle 5 Points Rd., Centerville, Ohio 45458.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in Tilden’s honor to Hospice of Dayton or Antioch Shriners.