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Winston Lawson Obituary
After graduating from high school in Buffalo he headed at age 16 to the University of Buffalo, graduating in 4 years with a History and Government degree.
While at UB he met Barbara Barrett, who was the younger sister of his fraternity brother. They married in 1950.
During the Korean War he served in Army Counterintelligence. After the war he used that experience to join the United States Secret Service where he served under 7 Presidents from Eisenhower to Reagan. Some of his favorite memories are from his time guarding Vice Presidents Humphrey and Agnew.
After a long and distinguished career in which he rose to Acting Assistant Director he retired and went on to serve another 10 years with the intelligence community.
Following that career he worked for Reverends Billy and Franklin Graham doing security around the world.
In addition to his careers of service he volunteered for numerous organizations like Meals on Wheels, Francis Asbury United Methodist Church, Association of Former Agents of the United States Secret Service, Samaritans Purse, and others.
He is survived by his wife of 69 years, Barbara; daughter, Andrea (Don); son, Jeff (Denise); brother, Merlin (Nina); grandchildren, Matthew, Reid, Rhianna, Riley, Matt S., Emma, and Brandon, and several beloved nieces and nephews.
Services will be held at Francis Asbury United Methodist Church, 1871 N. Great Neck Rd., Virginia Beach, VA, 23454 on Saturday, November 16th at 2 pm with a reception to follow in the social hall.
In lieu of flowers, if you are so inclined, you may make a donation to the Lake Taylor Transitional Care Center or Samaritan's Purse.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Winston Lawson
Sponsored by the family.
Tom Clifford
May 28, 2021
To Mr. Lawson's family.
My heartfelt condolences on your loss. He life was one of extraordinary Public Service.
Thank you for sharing him with our Nation.
Gratefully
Mary Lawson-Benze
December 9, 2019
I was saddened to hear of Winston's passing.
My dad spoke of him often and was so proud of
his accomplishments. His service to our country is greatly appreciated. May he rest in peace.
Dolores Lawson-Kellett
December 7, 2019
I just heard about Winston and am so sorry. I send love to Barbra and the family, may he rest in peace. He was so kind to send me pictures of your trip to Sweden and the places where our families lived. I keep them in the family album and will pass it on to my children and grandchildren.
December 7, 2019
Thank you for service to the united states of America God bless you
Mj Green
Edtom Roney
December 7, 2019
Thank you Mr. Lawson for your service to this nation and a very big thank you to the Lawson family for supporting him throughout his life and career. A member of my extended family (Earl Moore) worked with Mr. Lawson and I know he was a dedicated and loyal member of the greatest organization in law enforcement. I have been in law enforcement for 38 years on many levels and admire Mr. Lawson greatly. May God Bless him and the Lawson family.
Ron and Susan Hurley
November 17, 2019
Win was clearly an amazing man, and the memorial service was a wonderful way to honor him. All those who spoke at the service paid tribute to him so beautifully and helped us know more about the great man he was. We extend our sincere condolences to all of you.
November 12, 2019
We send our heartfelt condolences to you all, especially to Barbara. My dog Joshua and I visited Mr. Lawson regularly on Wednesday mornings at LTTCH. We will miss you all. Sending best love, Amy and Joshua
Tela Jones
November 11, 2019
Andi,Don and Matthew,
Mike and I send our sincerest condolences to you and your family. We send our prayers and love at this very difficult time. Please let us know if there is anything we can do to support you.
Mike & Tela Jones
Katie Caufield Broz
November 10, 2019
Our deepest condolences to the family of Mr Lawson. My dog Lucky and I are a pet therapy team at Lake Taylor TCH and knew him for a few years from our weekly visits there. He always greeted us enthusiastically and Lucky loved the cuddles. He will be missed. We wish you all fond memories of his life and comfort in your loss
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