Danita Lawson

October 5, 1952-July 29,2026

Danita Lawson, fondly known as Nita, was born on October 5, 1952, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Robert L. Johnson and Delores Patterson (Stanley Samons Sr.). Danita was the third of six children, alongside her siblings Marlene Harris (Jerome), Deborah Bingham, Cora Samons/Deceased (Thomas), Sandra Huggins, and Stanley Samons Jr. Danita attended schools in Cleveland, Ohio.

On January 17, 1972, at 19 years old, Danita married Marshall Lawson, then 20. Together they welcomed three children: Dr. Martina Louise Hayes (Clifford), Tonisha Monique Lawson, and Marshall Lee Lawson Jr. (Raesuan).

Danita dedicated nearly thirty years of her career to the City of Shaker Heights, retiring from Shaker Heights City Hall in 2010.

Danita was a lover of God, family, her children, life, people, singing, dancing, and music. She loved her family deeply. Blessed with a green thumb, she could grow anything she put her hands on.

The sun set on Danita on July 29, 2026, at her home in Stockbridge, Georgia surrounded by her children.

She leaves behind to cherish her memory her children, Dr. Martina Louise “Tina” Hayes (Clifford), Tonisha Monique "Toni" Lawson, Marshall Lee “Man” Lawson Jr. (Raesuan) and Ebony Phelps,; her grandchildren Parris, Clifford III, Jermani, and Brittan (children of Martina and Clifford "Dave" Hayes Jr.), Tekia, Andre (deceased), and Tenia Lawson (children of Tonisha), and Kenron, Champayne, Armani, and Marshall III (children of Marshall Jr. "Man" and Raesuan "Suannie"); her siblings Marlene Harris (Jerome), Deborah Bingham, Sandra Huggins, and Stanley Samons Jr.; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert Johnson and Delores Patteson; her sister, Cora Samons; and her grandson, Andre Lawson.