Ryan "Red" Lawson

Ryan Robert "Red" Lawson, 51, of Meriden, passed away on November 7, 2025. Ryan was well known and loved throughout the community for his warmth, humor, and big heart.
Affectionately known as "Red" because of his unmistakable red hair and bright personality, Ryan left a lasting impression wherever he went. His genuine kindness and easygoing nature drew people in, and he was cherished by all who knew him.
Ryan didn't have a harmful bone in his body. His heart was pure, his intentions kind, and he was loved deeply by all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was the kind of man who would do anything for his family, always putting others before himself.
His children, Guinevere and Quinn Lawson, were his absolute pride and joy, and the love he had for them was immeasurable. He is also survived by his mom, Lisa Vezina; his sister, Tanya Lawson; his sister and brother-in-law, Giustina and David Polvani, along with their children, Olivia and Vinny; his stepfather, Gennaro Schiano-DiCola; and his cousin, Wayne, who grew up like a brother to him. He also leaves behind several aunts, uncles, cousins, and many close friends who became like family over the years.
Ryan was predeceased by his beloved dogs, Norman, Miko, and Jake, and is survived by his cat, Noodle, the treasured Polvani Pitbulls, Meadow and Greyson, who slept beside him every night and brought him so much love and comfort.
Ryan was a proud graduate of Maloney High School, Class of 1993, and before that attended Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford. He carried many lifelong friendships from those years and treasured the memories of growing up in his hometown.
From high school through his early 30s, Ryan worked at his family's business, Napoli Pizza in Meriden, where he learned the value of hard work, loyalty, and connection. He later built a career in the car dealership industry, working for Barberino Nissan, Apple Auto, A Better way Auto, Barberino Mitsubish, Prestige Auto, and Auto Maxx. He was always remembered for his humor, kindness, and the way he could make anyone feel at ease.
Ryan loved life's simple pleasures - spending time with his kids, going out with friends, enjoying a good pizza, singing karaoke, and cheering on his favorite football team, the New York Jets. He had a deep appreciation for old cars, '80s and '90s music, and was known for his great voice and fearless karaoke performances that brought everyone joy. His favorite thing to do was get in the car and just drive with no destination in mind. Ryan also believed you didn't need an excuse to eat cake, like most of his family.
He also had a strong interest in astrology and was proud to be a Virgo, a true reflection of his loyal, grounded, and caring nature. He loved learning about zodiac signs and could easily tell you all about yours after just a few minutes of talking. He wanted everyone to know that he could palm a basketball and had crooked pinkies.
A Memorial Service to celebrate Ryan's life will be held in The Wallingford Funeral Home, 809 North Main Street Ext., on Saturday, November 15th, from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Afterwards, family and friends are invited to gather at Maloney's Pub in Meriden to continue celebrating Ryan's life. In true Ryan fashion, guests are encouraged to wear their favorite band tee and bring their singing voices, as Ryan would want everyone to join in for a night of karaoke, laughter, and music - just the way he would have loved it.
In lieu of flowers, those who wish to honor Ryan's memory are encouraged to make a donation to the Meriden Humane Society, a cause he cared deeply about. Ryan was a true believer in "Adopt Don't Shop," as two of his own beloved dogs came from adoption. To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Ryan, please visit our floral store.