With hearts full of both sorrow and gratitude for a life so beautifully lived, we remember Debra Lea Lawson, who was born on November 6, 1953, in Columbus, Ohio, and passed away peacefully on July 28, 2026. Her journey through 72 years was marked by unyielding love, laughter, devotion to her family, and a zest for the simple joys that make each day brighter.

Debbie was the heartbeat of her family, a proud and doting mother who poured her unconditional support into her children’s lives. She cheered with pride at every game, never missing a single moment—her sons Carl Lawson and Chris Lawson always knew she’d be in the stands or on the sideline, a smile on her face, encouragement in her voice. Her hands and heart were always open, not just to her family, but to the entire neighborhood. It was no exaggeration to say that she was “Mom” to many, finding deep joy in nurturing those around her.

Her warmth extended beyond her immediate family, embracing her grandchildren, Bianca (Brandon) Armstrong, Austin Whaley, Arianna Turner, and Hannah Claffey, her many great grandchildren, nieces, nephews and other loving family and friends.

Debbie's passions brought her simple happiness and forged countless connections. She found camaraderie in the bowling alley as a beloved member of her league for many years, and her competitive but joyful spirit shone brightly as her sons’ devoted crew chief at the drag races. Euchre nights with her mother were treasured rituals, filled with lively conversation and laughter. Debra found solace in the garden, her hands working the earth and coaxing life and color from every patch of soil. Her love for water, swimming and boating on peaceful days, reflected her free spirit and her appreciation for nature’s beauty.

An enthusiastic cook and baker, Debbie’s kitchen was always a hub of delicious aromas and comfort. She was best known for her Christmas cookies, a yearly tradition that delighted family and friends and reminded all who gathered of the sweetness she added to every holiday season.

Music and dancing were sources of great joy for Debbie, and there was rarely a tune she wouldn’t tap her feet to or a dance floor she wouldn’t claim. Her laughter was infectious, and it lifted the spirits of everyone she was with.

Debbie’s circle of love included her brother, Michael, and his wife Sandy; her sisters Sharon and Pam, and brother-in-law Larry, along with numerous nieces and nephews. The bonds she forged with other loving family and friends endures, a testament to her ability to make every person feel like they mattered.

She now reunites in peace with her beloved husband, Arthur “Butterball” Ray Lawson, her cherished parents, Luigi and May Caminiti, and her daughter Amy Lynn Lawson. While her absence leaves a profound void, each person touched by Debbie’s vibrant spirit carries forward the warmth, kindness, and resilience that she so freely gave.

We grieve her loss, but more than that, we honor her legacy—a legacy of motherly love, unwavering loyalty, spirited laughter, and beautiful memories etched forever in our hearts.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Jude's Children's Hospital.