Ruth Manley Lawson

Ruth Lawson, born on April 15, 1927, in Royston, GA, to Jesse Harrison Manley and Annie Laurie Ussery, was raised in the rural expanse of northeastern Georgia, where her family roots ran deep through generations.
Ruth grew up working side by side with her parents and siblings on their family farm while attending school. Together, they tended to the land, partook in gardening, canning, laundry, and even cotton picking. From these experiences, she developed a deep appreciation for the "old ways" that she cherished throughout her life.
Graduating from Carnesville High School in 1944, Ruth moved to Atlanta, GA, where she worked in a bank and lived with her friend Helen in a boarding house for young women. Later, Ruth found love when she was introduced to Calvin Lawson on a blind date arranged by her friend and roommate, Helen. They married on March 22, 1946, in Carnesville, and her family immediately fell in love with Calvin, a tall Texan with a passion for baseball.
Ruth and Calvin built a beautiful family, blessed with four children: Linda Diane, Charles Michael, Rhonda Kay, and Jon Calvin. Ruth's love and dedication to her children were unparalleled; she was a great teacher, patient, and generous with her time, nurturing and guiding them through life.
Ruth worked at LA Mills Elementary as a cafeteria worker, where she prepared meals for the children. Her selfless nature extended beyond her workplace, where she lovingly cooked for her family, ensuring everyone was served before she took a plate for herself.
Gardening and quilting were among her favorite pastimes. She was a master gardener and a skilled quilter, creating beautiful hand-sewn quilts with intricate stitches, a skill passed down through generations.
Ruth's life was guided by faith and an unwavering belief in God's purpose, even during the most challenging times. Her positive outlook and resilience were remarkable, and she believed in a better place awaiting her despite not wanting to leave her family.
Ruth is survived by her children Linda Diane Cullins, Charles Michael Lawson and Vicki, Rhonda Kay Lawson, Jon Calvin Lawson, grandchildren Christina Diane Arnold and Marc, Albert David Cullins and Toni, Aaron Glen Cullins, Sarah Ruth Weemes, Damien Victor Wharton and Erin, great-grandchildren Kaytryn Avia Weemes, Albert Davin Cullins, Colin Andrew Wharton, Elijah Boone Smith-Arnold, Eric Calvin Cullins, Noah Frederick Smith-Arnold, Wenni Grace Wharton, Afton Hope Smith-Arnold, Nolan Victor Wharton, Emeline Claire Weemes, siblings, and a vast extended family, many who considered her their 2nd mom. Her legacy lives on through the love and memories she created with her family and friends.
A visitation will be held to honor Ruth's life on Wednesday, November 1, 2023 from 6 to 8 in the evening at Midlothian Funeral Home. A graveside service will be held on Thursday, November 2, 2023 at 2 o'clock in the afternoon at Pleasant Valley Cemetery in Cedar Hill, Texas with Steve Thompson officiating. Ruth Lawson will be remembered for her sweet, kind, and thoughtful nature. She often said, "Life gets tedious, honey," and had an unwavering faith that "everything's gonna be alright (because Momma said so)."
Ruth's family and friends, near and far, remember her for the love and care she extended to everyone. Her favorite color was green, and she adored Georgia peanuts and peaches.
Ruth Lawson will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing her. Her legacy will live on in the hearts of those who loved her dearly.