Lawson Larry Calloway , Jr, 85, passed away peacefully on September 10, 2024 after a long and joy filled life. Born on March 13, 1939, in Chatham, VA, Lawson's life journey was defined by his devotion to family and the many people he touched with his warmth and humor.

Lawson moved to Newport News, VA at a young age where he grew up in the tight-knit community of Newsome Park. He graduated from Carver High School and went on to attend Norfolk State University where he studied automotive mechanics. Following his studies, he served in the United States Army. After a brief stint at the Newport News Shipyard, Lawson went on to have a 29 year career at UPS where he started as a driver and worked his way up into a managerial position.

Lawson was married to the love of his life Lillie, with whom he shared 61 beautiful years of marriage. Together, they raised three daughters who were his pride and joy. His devotion to his girls was evident in everything he did, whether filling up empty gas tanks or volunteering at his daughter Patrice's school.

In his later years Lawson became a dutiful member of the Board of Trustees at First Baptist Church of Hampton. He also had a lifelong love of cars, with a special fondness for his pickup truck. His favorite colors were black and red, which became a signature part of his style, as did the expression "Does a bear live in the woods?". He was an avid music listener, particularly jazz, and never missed an opportunity to eat a burnt hot dog with baked beans on the side.

Lawson was an amazing man with bucket loads of charm, an infectious smile, and a go with the flow spirit. He was loved by all who met him and he will be deeply missed.

Lawson is survived by his devoted wife, Mrs. Lillie Calloway of Richmond; daughter and son-in-law who he loved as a son, Dr. Nicole Calloway Rankins and Dr. Falcon Rankins of Richmond; daughter, Ms. Camille Calloway of Richmond; sisters, Mrs. Lessie Jean Dunston of Maryland, Mrs. Caroline Williams of Hampton and Dr. Cynthia Rhone of Hampton; nieces and nephews, Mr. Kevin Williams (Janella) of Matthews County, Ms. Nekesha Williams of Hampton, Ms. Karla Rhone of Hampton, and Mr. Christopher Dunston (Shani) of Maryland; his beloved granddaughters, Sienna and Alaina Rankins; and a host of extended family, friends, and loved ones. He is preceded in death by his dear oldest daughter, Ms. Patrice Calloway.

A viewing will be held on Thursday September 19, 2024, at Cooke Bros. Funeral Chapel from 11am to 5pm, 1601 27th Street, Newport News, VA. A funeral service will be held at 11am Friday September 20, 2024, at First Baptist Church, 229 North King Street, Hampton, VA. Interment will follow at Hampton Memorial Gardens, with a repast back at First Baptist Church of Hampton thereafter.