James Smith Lawson Jr.

Born on July 30, 1940 to James Smith and Sara Simmons Lawson in Jackson, MS, Jim served in the US Marine Corps for 3 years. Upon completion, he received a Bachelors degree in Economics from Millsaps College, followed by an MBA from Mississippi State University, of which he remained an avid fan throughout his life.

Jim was employed by Battelle Memorial Institute in Columbus, OH, where he served as Economic Development Project Manager for 18 years. He later served as Executive Director of Lauderdale Economic Development Authority in Meridian, MS. He spent his later years as an instructor at both MSU and University of West Alabama until he retired in 2010.

While attending MSU, Jim was actively involved with Kappa Alpha Order Fraternity. During his professional career, he served as Secretary of Rotary International of Meridian, MS for over 19 years, where he was recognized as a Paul Harris Fellow. Throughout his life, he was active as both a deacon and Sunday school teacher for over 30 years.

Jim’s love for the Lord and his family was the center of his life. He had a passion for gardening, history, and travel. Teaching college students also brought him great fulfillment.

He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Sara Simmons Lawson, and sister Sara Ann Bowlus. He is survived by his wife, Carol; sister Dayton Miller; children Judith Lawson Corn (Bobby); Dawn Lawson Burke (Patrick); James S Lawson III (Kerri); and Patrick Warren Lawson; 11 grandchildren; 4 great grandchildren, and a large extended family.

Family and friends are invited to attend a visitation at First Baptist Madison in Madison, MS on Thursday July 29, 2021 from 2:00 to 3:00 pm with a service to follow at 3:00 pm. There will be a private burial service at Lakewood Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Mission Fund at First Baptist Madison, 2100 Main Street, Madison, MS 39110.