Jack W. Lawson

Jack W. Lawson, 89, of Fort Wayne, IN, passed away peacefully August 26, 2025, a distinguished attorney, devoted family man, and faithful servant of Christ. Born on September 23, 1935, in Berne, Indiana, Jack's life was defined by purpose, perseverance, and a deep love for others. Jack entered the world during hardship-not only was it the thick of the Great Depression, but his biological mother, Martha Stolz Smitley, passed away due to complications during childbirth. He was adopted and raised by his aunt and uncle, Florence C. Lawson (née Smitley) and Alva W. Lawson, whom he always lovingly regarded as his parents. Growing up on an active dairy farm, he learned at an early age the value of an honest day's work. It was not unusual for his days to begin before sunrise and end well after sunset. His father (Alva) was also a highly respected heating and plumbing professional, which Jack often helped him with as well – skills that he would continue to use throughout life. His mother (Florence) would keep the books for the business and taught Jack how to invoice customers, as well as knowing when it was time to "just look the other way" on a bill for a financially challenged family. Despite the early loss of his biological mother, Jack maintained a close and respectful relationship with his biological father, Chalmer Smitley, who was a farmer as well. A 1953 graduate of Decatur High School, Jack was a multi-talented student who played trumpet in the band and defensive back on the football team, proudly wearing #54. In a classic Jack moment of commitment, he once dashed off the field at halftime to change into his band uniform so he could march in the show. He went on to earn his undergraduate degree in Engineering from Purdue University / Valparaiso University on a combined program, and his Doctor of Jurisprudence from Valparaiso University School of Law in 1960. While at Valparaiso he co-founded WVUR radio station and was a member of the Theta Chi Fraternity. More importantly, it was there that he met the love of his life, Sally J. Hibbard, who was an Alpha Phi Delta. The two married on December 28, 1960, beginning a lifelong partnership built on love, shared values, and joy. They also enjoyed traveling and a particular fondness of sailing. Jack was a founding partner of the Fort Wayne law firm Beckman Lawson, LLP, along with his friend, Fred Beckman. He focused his practice on real estate, corporate, environmental, and healthcare law. Known for his meticulous preparation and commitment to excellence, he became one of Fort Wayne's most respected legal minds-at one time the only lawyer in the city to be a member of the American College of Real Estate Lawyers. He was repeatedly listed in Best Lawyers in America for his work in real estate law. Jack authored and edited numerous legal publications, including Lawson on Indiana Real Estate Transactions-Practice Guide, a two-volume manual used widely by real estate lawyers across the state. He served as a contributing author, lecturer, and chair for many state and national continuing legal education programs, particularly for the Indiana Continuing Legal Education Forum (ICLEF). A longtime leader with ICLEF, Jack was honored in 2001 with the Sagamore of the Wabash by Governor Frank O'Bannon and received ICLEF's "Excellence in CLE Award" in 2021-a recognition he held with deep pride. Admitted to practice before the Supreme Court of the United States in 1970, Jack was also a certified mediator and a passionate mentor to young attorneys, believing firmly in leading by example. Jack's faith was the foundation of his life. He and Sally were longtime members of Trinity English Lutheran Church in Fort Wayne, where he joyfully taught the "Word Alive" Sunday School class for many years. His spiritual strength and wisdom left a lasting impression on everyone he taught and counseled. In retirement, Jack embraced a love for antiques-a hobby Sally might gently describe as an obsession. He always found peace and joy on the shores of Lake Michigan at Bethany Beach, Sawyer, Michigan and Lake Wawasee in Syracuse, Indiana. He often regaled family and friends with the legendary tale of a 1978 fishing trip when he spontaneously leapt from a moving boat into Lake Michigan, one hand clutching his glasses, the other a net, to retrieve a coho salmon that had slipped the line. Jack is survived by his beloved wife of 64 years, Sally; sons Mark E. Lawson (Julia) and Jeffrey A. Lawson (Laura); grandchildren Rose Lawson, David A. Lawson (Kenzie), Amanda L. Lawson (Nolan), and Nikki Lawson (Brandon); brother Richard Smitley (Beverly) and sister Darlene Bailey (Jerry). He was preceded in death by his parents Alva and Florence Lawson, his sister Betty Rump (née Smitley), and her husband Don. Jack W. Lawson lived a life of integrity, purpose, and faith. His legacy endures in the family he loved, the legal community he shaped, and the many lives he touched through wisdom, mentorship, and grace. The date for the Funeral and Thanksgiving for the Life of Jack W. Lawson will be on September 17 at Trinity English Lutheran Church. Visitation will be from 10:00 AM to 11 AM, with the service immediately following. Reception and light lunch immediately following. To leave online condolences please visit www.greenlawnmpfh.com.