Thomas Mills Lawson

Vestal - Thomas Mills Lawson passed away peacefully on January 10th, 2026.

Tom was married to Carmelita (deceased) for 71 years. He is survived by his sons Thomas A (Laura) and John (Betty), five grandchildren Timothy, Katherine(Jeff), Colleen (Jason), Sean, Faith (Kyle), and great grandchildren Sean and Abigail.

Tom was born on November 3rd, 1930 in Chicago IL to Chester and Grace Lawson.

As a child, he enjoyed playing at the family's theatrical costume and prop business. He always remarked that they had real western six shooters. Later the family moved to Greene NY.

Married for 71 years, Tom and Carm had a storybook love story. They met at Coney Island just before Tom was being stationed in Germany with the Army. Over the next three years they exchanged countless letters and married on August 15, 1954. Tom went to college on the GI bill and graduated from Binghamton University (Harper College) with a Bachelor's Degree in history and continued his education receiving his Masters Degree from Cornell University.

Tom devoted his life to teaching for over three decades, teaching History, Economics, and Government classes at Vestal High School. He was very involved with the Vestal Teachers Association holding various positions, including President.

Tom passion for learning never ebbed. He was always reading. He also enjoyed golfing and bowling. But what was most important to Tom was his love and devotion to his family, always there for support and encouragement. Tom loved to recite limericks (sometimes naughty). He loved to come up with trivia questions to stump the family at any gathering.

Tom will be truly missed, a wonderful man who gave kindness, love and loyalty to his family and friends. Per his wishes there will be no services.