Craig Steven Lawson, affectionately known as “Uncle Duke Duke” and “Craigerson”, the only son of the late Evelyn Lawson Friend, was born on February 3, 1961, in Richmond, Virginia. Craig entered eternal rest peacefully on July 23, 2024, at Bon Secours – St. Mary’s Hospital in Richmond, Virginia.
Craig was reared in King & Queen County as the only son and middle child. Growing up, he enjoyed spending time with his male cousins who lived across the street.
Craig was educated in the public schools of King and Queen County graduating from Central High School in 1979. In high school, Craig mastered the trade of brick masonry and went on to make a career as the owner of C&J Lawson Masonry. Craig is responsible for many foundations and brick structures in the Middle Peninsula and beyond. During his career, he worked for and partnered with: James “Jim” Parson, Jake Dabney and PW Development, Inc.
In 2012, Craig survived a brain tumor that virtually ended his masonry career. He defied the odds with a prognosis of blindness, as he continued to use his hands and his creative mind to make jewelry, scarves, key chains, and much more. Craig enjoyed watching Westerns, training his numerous dogs, restoring antique cars, and playing his lottery tickets!
Craig Steven Lawson leaves to his fond memories his loving and devoted wife, Joan Harris Lawson; children, Devin Harris, Craishawnda Lawson, Jonice Henley (John), Andre Howard (Gisel); grandchildren, Ah’Dezja Harris, Cherish King, Cherity King, Jakyre Henley, and Jayla Henley; sisters, Portia Robinson (Leroy), Alice Washington, Lisa Holmes and Brenda Thompson (Stuart); sister-in-law, Pamela Parson; brothers-in-law, Edward Broaddus, Sr. (Sharon), Mervin Harris (Louise), John Harris (Marci), William Harris (Charman); the extended Morris family, a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, other relatives, and friends, to include his devoted friend, Arnold “Buggy” Harris.
A funeral service will be held 2 p.m. Friday, July 26, 2024, at Trinity Baptist Church, West Point, VA. A viewing will be held from noon to 2 p.m., Friday, just prior to services.
