James Thomas Lawson

James (Jim) Thomas Lawson (61) of Knoxville, TN died peacefully in his sleep during the morning of March 15, 2026.

Jim was born March 21, 1964, into the home of Woody Marshall and Alta Rae Lawson, the middle child between Sandra Lee Lawson and Jeffrey David Lawson.

As a young man Jim proudly served 6 years in the 278th Unit of the Tennessee Army National Guard. His life’s accomplishments included a successful career starting in the grocery industry and culminating in his work in real estate during the last decade of his life. He inherited a love and appreciation of fine craftsmanship and woodwork from his father that he instilled in his own boys. Any project he undertook bore the marks of the care, intention, and beauty that was inherit in his character.

Jim was blessed with a family he loved and who loved him so dearly. He and his wife of almost 40 years, Cindy Anne (West) shared a wonderful life together moving across some 6 states as a family before returning to Tennessee. They loved and supported each other through trials and triumphs and recently celebrated Cindy’s victory in her battle against breast cancer. Jim is the proud and devoted father to his sons, James Christopher (Clair) of Nashville, Tn and Craig Adam (Caroline) of Red Rock, TX. He reveled in the near daily conversations with his boys, laughing together and sharing the day-to-day. He loved the close relationship they shared and the men they had become. Jim’s favorite title and proudest promotion was to Gampy! His grandchildren were such a joy to his life, Emma and Annie in Nashville and Jack and Luke in Texas.

Jim was preceded in death by his father, Woody and sister Sandy. He is survived by his Mom, Alta, brother Jeff (Jena), brother-in-law Chip (Kathy) Ferguson, sister in-law Sherry (Ray) Chace and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Jim was a follower Jesus Christ and a man of deep faith. This faith carried him through some difficult seasons of life. His loyalty, courage, and overwhelming love will be missed by his family. We rest in the knowledge that while we grieve, we know Jim is with our Savior.

There will be a celebration of life at the Chapel at First Baptist Concord, Farragut, TN on Thursday, March 19th with a receiving of friends at 4 pm EDT and a service to follow at 5 pm EDT. The family asks that in lieu of flowers please make a donation in Jim’s name to the Benevolence Fund at First Baptist Concord to show the love of Jesus to those in need in the community. Ways to Give: Donations to the fund can be made through FBC Concord's online portal https://concord.simpledonation.com/give/mobile/01HW5RVQ4Y421NFVYMH21JNW6C,
or by mail (Attn: Finance, 11704 Kingston Pike, Knoxville, TN 37934).