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Alphonzo S. Lawson

Alphonzo Lawson Obituary

LAWSON, ALPHONZO S.

On Sunday, February 15, 2004. Graduate of Spingarn High School, Delaware State College and former football player for the New York Jets. Beloved son of Edward and Lorinda Lawson of Washington, D.C.; devoted father of Melody of Washington, D.C., Rhonda of Fort Worth, TX, Savonya of Jacksonville, FL; Gregory of San Francisco, CA. Also survived by former wife, Corrinne of Capitol Heights, MD, a host of other relatives and friends. Memorial service Saturday, February 21, 2004 at 8324 North 13th Ave., Phoenix, AZ.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The Washington Post on Feb. 20, 2004.

Memories and Condolences
for Alphonzo Lawson

Sponsored by Al's Phoenix Marathon Group.

79 Entries

Rhonda LaShawn Lawson

March 10, 2025

Dad,
February 2025 came and went by so quickly. Even though I didn't write a message here, I was thinking of you on that day of February 15, 2004, and every day. I know you are doing well watching over your family, so proud of your children, your loved ones, your colleagues and those who were a part of your practice that came to see from the states and abroad to hear your words of wisdom. We all love and miss you. This June you would be celebrating your 84th birthday. Love and miss you always. :-)

Rhonda Lawson

July 6, 2023

Good evening Dad, you crossed my mind today and missing you. I met up with a couple of your friends Trish and Dianna and we told stories and laughed as we ate dinner. You would be so proud of them as they keep your memory going. I know you are laughing and calling me "baby cakes". All your kids are doing fine and carrying on the Lawson name. Miss you! RLL

Melody

February 11, 2023

Hey dad this is your first born. Today I turned 63 years old. I wasn't expecting to hear from you today. As i was in the lottery line i was listening to one of your favorite artist marvin gaye and knew you were trying to tell me something. Now i know what it was your Jersey number came out straight! Thanks for coming through! Love U Melody!!!

Michelle "Mikie Parks" Schnorr

June 18, 2022

I cannot believe Al is gone. Heaven sure gained a saint. I didn't believe it was " my Alphonzo" til I saw sweet Pat Dufort's name. I cannot describe the massive impact Al had on my life, he taught me everything healthy and untaught me practically everything. I use the incredible truths and tools he taught me daily, and think of him ALL the time. I was a scared child walking in and just 2 years later, I was a strong woman ready for a husband and my dream family. It is purely to Al's credit I am celebrating 25 years healthy, joyous strong marriage and our 4 happy, psychologically super healthy, amazing children who daily live n practice what AL taught ME. You made the world a better place, Alphonzo Lawson! Thank you!! Wishing Al's children and friends and patients peace and healing.

Trish Spencer

February 15, 2020

Rhonda,
Your Dad is still a vibrant part of my life. It's funny your message would pop up today as I was sharing with a friend who was struggling with issues some of his Al-isms as our group called them. Great wisdoms that calm the mind and guide us through life. I'm looking 70 in the face this year and I know Al would be as dynamic as ever. Thanks to your Dad I have peace of mind. I miss him as one of my best friends in life as well as best therapist, and he's very much alive in my heart and mind! Best wishes to you who he loved so much! And Al... love you!

Rhonda Lawson

February 14, 2020

On the upcoming anniversary of your death, i still wonder what could have been your life path in your 70's. I can only imagine that you would be still living your best life.

Love and miss you as i sit here looking at your picture. Take care Dad and Happy Valentines Day.

Rhonda

Rhonda Lawson

February 16, 2019

Wow can't believe it has been 15 years. A week does not go by when you are not thought of. So much has changed and I know you are smiling down on your family. Luv ya

Patricia Dufort

February 15, 2019

Al,
It's been 15 years since you left this planet for a higher place. I miss you and love you always.
Love,
Pat

Rhonda Lawson

June 7, 2018

Thank you Pat for your steadfast love for our dad. I spoke with wmy siblings yesterday on Dad's birthday and we all shared stories. He made an impact on so many during his 62 years on this earth and I thank his Arizona group for maintaining this page.

June 6, 2018

Al,
Another birthday, a day to celebrate your arrival on this planet. You made life better for so many. I miss you and love you and hope you are enjoying eternity.
Love, Pat

Alarki Barksdale

October 17, 2016

Never got a chance to meet my great uncle but as I can see he was loved by many and has inspired a lot of people. I know he was a major impact on my mother life. He was her favorite uncle. I wish had could have met you.
R.I.H.
YOUR GREAT NIECE:
ALARKI BARKSDALE

June 7, 2016

Al was and remains such an important part of my life but I am so glad we have this way for his friends and family to communicate so I don't forget what a wonderful and amazing best friend and teacher he was. Al, I would love to have seen you at 75, still kicking butt and taking names. Still golfing and laughing! Still impacting people's lives.
God I miss your laugh! Love you!

Pat Dufort

June 6, 2016

Dearest Al,
Today would have been your 75th birthday. I hope all the heavens are celebrating the anniversary of the day you came to earth. I love you and miss you.
Pat

Rhonda Lawson

June 19, 2015

Happy Father's Day. I miss you every day. Love you immensely!
Rhonda

Kathy Long

June 7, 2015

Dear Phonzo, I have been thinking about you and the help you offered a lot lately. I hope your birthday was another celebration. I love and miss you.

We share a love of football

Rhonda Lawson

June 6, 2015

Happy Birthday dad. Today you would have celebrated your 74th birthday. Was talking to your niece Nita today and she told me to tell you hello. I still miss my daddy and love you to the moon and back. Enjoy your day. Love ya Rhonda ( baby cakes)

Pat Dufort

June 6, 2015

Al, thinking of you and hoping you enjoy your earth birthday where you are. Love you and miss you.

Rhonda Lawson

June 7, 2014

On June 6, you would have celebrated your 73rd birthday . Hope you are surrounded with family and friends smiling down on us and having the time of your existence. Love you always and miss you immensely :-)

Patricia Dufort

June 6, 2014

Al, Happy Birthday! Celebrating the day you entered this world. I miss you. Love always, Pat

Rich Miles

April 23, 2014

Damn it Al, just thinking of you and find this. Many years have passed since we were friends and have talked. Sandy and I have such fond memories. And here I just took up golf three years ago at 67 and will have to wait to meet you on the course upstairs. Love you man!

Patricia Dufort

March 10, 2014

It's been more than ten years since you left this planet. Hard to believe. I miss you.
Love always, Pat

Melody Lawson

October 9, 2013

Feeling your spirit letting me know that everything is alright!!!
Thank you Dad!!!

Trish Spencer

July 16, 2013

Hi Al. Sure, you are up there flying around in he great beyond doing Lord knows what, feeling great, playing Godly Golf, entertaining everyone and here I am growing old and decrepit! I just turned 63! Yikes. Things can and do get worse. I remember about that time of your life you turning to me and saying "I HAVE to stretch now. It's awful!" I am gimpy now limping around with bad knees scaring the dogs. I have a photo of you on my fridge- you have your hand on your forehead, head bent down laughing, I saw that look so often in group usually followed by a belly laugh. I imagine you are nearby laughing at my behaviors on the rare days I am not perfect. I miss you, damn it! BFF...

July 16, 2013

I am so thrilled to hear that folks still think about my dad. It is special to see when messages are posted. He would have been 73 years old on June 6. Cant believe how fast time has gone by. I would like to thank the Phoenix group for keeping the guest book going for all. Rhonda

July 15, 2013

I was just reminiscing about group therapy and how Al was so great a chart writer and all. He made a chart of an evil witch, which was my "WITCH PARENT" AND IT REALLY WORKED!

Rhonda Lawson

October 16, 2012

Dad,you have been on my mind today. I know it is you telling me to slow down and enjoy life because you enjoyed it very much. I will always miss you. Evertime I heear Marvin Gaye sing your favorite song "let's get it on" I begin to laugh and think about you snapping your fingers, eyes partly closed and a cigarette laughing and singing off tune. Gosh I miss you. Love you - Rhonds

Trish Spencer

June 8, 2011

Wow I just smile thinking about what you'd have been like at 70! Fabulous!(Now you'd throw back your head and laugh with gusto!) Makes me sad you had to leave before then...miss you, love you, thank you!
Trish

Pat Dufort

June 7, 2011

Al,
Happy Birthday one day late. Celebrating the 70th anniversary of the day you arrived on this planet.
Love always,

Rhonda Lawson

June 6, 2011

Happy Birthday Dad, today you would have celebrated your 70th. You are always on my mind!!

Love you,

Rhonda

Ted Tencza

May 1, 2011

Don't know what made me google Al. Sorry to see he's gone. Can't think of anyone who had a bigger influence in turning me around, back in the early 80's. Truly, Al was in the business of giving people lives worth living. He was uniquely masterful at his craft.

February 15, 2011

Thinking about you today, Al. Hard to imagine all that has happened since you've been gone - when it still feels like yesterday, or more appropriate, today- that you passed on. I have the "program" from your memorial posted to my fridge now. It makes me happy to see your face and read your "Alisms". Miss you all the time.

Love,

Byrd

Pat Dufort

February 15, 2011

Thinking about you and missing you. Seven years. Love always, Pat

Rhonda Lawson

June 6, 2010

Today you would have celebrated your 69th birthday, but i will celebrate on your behalf. Still miss you dad.

Love you always,

Rhonda

Pat Dufort

June 6, 2010

Celebrating the day you entered this world. Wherever you are, hope you are enjoying this special day.

Pat Dufort

May 31, 2010

Thinking of you on this day for remembering, and every day. Love always, Pat

Rhonda Lawson

March 1, 2010

Thanks to all that continue to remember my dad, your friend. It is comforting to know that we all still care and I know he knows that he is loved.

Thanks

Rhonda

Pat Dufort

February 15, 2010

It's been six years. Hard to believe. Thinking about you and missing you. Love always.

Trish Spencer

January 3, 2010

Al,
It has been a tough year for me and so I have thought of you very often and often just thinking about what you might say has been a help to me. I am forever grateful for your love and guidance through so many years. I hope in heaven you are being rewarded for all you did for all of us. Love you and thanks for watching over me! I just know they have a big screen plasma up there and you are enjoying many days relaxing on your cloud and watching sports on the big screen. I hope it is a 52" TV. :)
Love,
Trish

Pat Dufort

December 25, 2009

Thinking of you on Christmas day. May blessings rain down upon us all.

Bertha Fauntroy

December 14, 2009

Hi cousin, I miss you so much. I look at the pictures you gave me, when you had a reunion in NJ. Hanging out with you and Betty Lou I really enjoyed. Phonie you are at peace, now rest and enjoy your sisters, brothers and Aunt Lourida. Not forgetting you aunts and Uncles.
I Love You Sweetie.

Pat Dufort

November 26, 2009

Thankful that you were once in my life and are always in my heart.
Love always

July 25, 2009

Dear Al,

It's Byrd! I miss you a lot. I am in DC now - where you were born. I made a big life change, and one I couldn't have done without you. Can you believe it!? I felt you with me every step of the way. I wish I could call you on the phone and talk about my fear and my excitement and wonder, about the changes taking place in my life. Everything you taught me has such meaning. I sometimes dream about you and it's nice to see you there. Thank you for everything you have given me and in so many ways continue to give me.

I love you!

Byrd

Trish Spencer

February 18, 2009

When I remember who I love on Valentine's Day you are on the top of the list, Al. I always rememnber the time you sent me roses because I felt bad I wasn't going to get any that year. I miss you and your hugs and words of wisdom. Love you, Trish

Karen Joy

February 16, 2009

V-Day still feels like mourning to me. I miss you, Al. I can feel you within me, and that makes me happy when I remember you.
I feel good missing someone as much as I miss you.
Thank you for that
Love you,
KJ

Pat Dufort

February 15, 2009

Five years today. I miss you.
Love, Pat

Rhonda Lawson

January 14, 2009

That dreaded day in February is approaching and it never seems to get any easier. Don't know why this guest book popped into my head tonight.
Take Care Dad.

Karen Joy

June 6, 2008

Hey Al:
Happy birthday my friend! I miss you very much, your hugs and your smile and your words. I know you are there, in my life, from the other side, and I realized how you were reaching out to me one day when I heard an Al Green song completely out of context and realized it was you. Thank you for that. He was one thing we shared, and I love that you use him to communicate with me. I appreciate all of the help you're giving me from wherever you are, and I think of you and feel gratitude for you every day.
Love,
KJ

Rhonda Lawson

June 5, 2008

Well dad, tomorrow is your day to celebrate your 67th birthday. I bet you are having a ball eating all those foods you know you should not be eating and drinking all the wine until your cup runs over. Have a wonderful birthday and a blessed day.

Love Rhonda

heike lenz

March 17, 2008

Still feeling grateful for what I learned from you Al.

Rhonda Lawson

June 27, 2007

Another birthday and father's day has passed and I try to think about how you would have enjoyed it. Probably on a golf course.

Miss ya

Rhonda

Rhonda Lawson

February 19, 2007

I am happy to know that my dad's friends still remember and sincerely care. Trish & Diana it was good to see you both last year. Pat continue to be strong.

Thanks,

Rhonda

Kathy Long

February 18, 2007

Your laugh, your touch, your advice and your warmth will never be replaced in my life. I miss you.

Judi Moskowitz

February 16, 2007

Dear Al,Waiting for when we will see you again....and we will!! You are painfully missed...
Judi & Joel Moskowitz
Kenvil, NJ

Pat Dufort

February 15, 2007

Three years ago, and yesterday.
Love always,
Pat

Trish Spencer

January 15, 2007

Hi Al,
Just writing to say Happy New Year 2007 and let you know how much you are still missed and loved. Been some tough times lately- it sure would have been great to have that big old shoulder to lean on a little. But you gave me the tools- and I feel so lucky to have known you and had you as my surrogate Dad-it just felt so much better to use them with you here to give encouragement and your wisdom and of course-humor-along the way.

Love and hugs, I carry you in my heart,
Trish

Pat Dufort

December 21, 2006

Hey Baby,
On this winter solstice day, I'm thinking of you and the returning of the light. Hoping that you are in a place of peace, joy and enlightenment.

Kathy Long

March 13, 2006

Oh, Phonzo, I miss you so much it hurts. I also miss the contact of so many wonderful people you touched. Thank you to all of you who maintain this site for us. Love to all.

Pat Dufort

February 15, 2006

You've been gone two years. Hard to believe. You live in my heart and in the hearts of all who were lucky enough to know you. Rest easy, Love.

Judi Moskowitz

January 24, 2006

Happy New Year, Al....I know where you are, ALL is joy!! Joel and I miss you still, but will pay tribute by trying to use what you taught and showed us!! If you see my mom, tell her I love her!

Pat Dufort

June 6, 2005

Happy Birthday, Baby. I miss you more than words can say.

Love always,

Judi Moskowitz

April 1, 2005

Missing you is palpable, even after a year! My husband mourns so silently! Joel loved Al so!!! Where do we go now for a GOOD therapist, mentor and friend?

Jennifer Byrd

January 23, 2005

It has taken me almost a year to sign this book. I geuss, it's just difficult. Al was my therapist, friend, and mom and dad all rolled into one! Al, I miss you! I wasn't ready to say goodbye, yet! You always were able to take what seemed an insurmountable problem and distill it down to where we could laugh at it and solve it, together. And take successes and show me what I did to make it happen. You taught me about life and living and gave me options I didn't know I had. You opened up my eyes to myself. I know you are having fun, learning and growing and asking God all kinds of questions. I miss you a lot and am scared because you are not there to help me and guide me in my life, but I also know that your words and your caring continue to live on inside of me. So, as KJ and Trish said, please watch over me! I miss you and still need you! I love you, Byrd.

Kathy Long

January 18, 2005

Dear Phonzo,

You taught me what it feels like to be loved, cared for and valued and I thank you for that. When I get sad and lonely I remember what it was like to see your smile and hear your reassuring voice and I am comforted. I miss you but I feel your love and know you are still guiding me.

Love, Kathy

Trish Spencer

January 18, 2005

Al I thought time would help me get used to the idea you are gone BUT IT IS NOT WORKING. I still miss you so much. I know you are up there all excited about your new position and growing and learning. And of course having fun. So I too will carry on. But there is a great big hole I am not sure what to fill up with. Miss you, love you. Thanks again for all you have done for me. And as LKaren said- please watch over me! I still need you!

Hugs,

Trish

PS Ziggy & the gang miss you too!!!

Trish

Rhonda Lawson

January 6, 2005

I begin the new year with happy and fond thoughts of my dad and wished he was still physically here. I know that he is watching over us and saying don't worry my spirit lives on in my beloved family and friends. One thinks that time will heal the heart. I sure do miss him. Happy New Year in your new home dad. Love Rhonda

Karen Joy

January 4, 2005

Alphonzo was the most intriguing and interesting person I've known. He was an extraordinary father/mother/mentor to me, and missing him feels scary to me. I'm not sure yet about how to proceed without him in my life. Al would tell me that this is the next step for me - seperation from him. And he's probably laughing now.

He impacted me in so many ways that allowed me to change my life continuously thoughout the 15+ years that I knew him. And he set the bar for being an amazing human being. His is a standard I will always aspire to and never forget. I know pieces of him live on in me and continue to thrive in those people that I impact, so in this way, I will remember his vitality. Thank you Al, for your love, care and attention to me during my re-formative years. Watch over me. I love you, KJ

Charles White

April 1, 2004

I met Al in 1960, we were freshman together at Delaware State. Our rooms were next door to each other so he was always eating my food. We even pledged Kappa together. We were good buddies. I lost track of my friend when I came west in 1970, but I heard that he was doing "OK".

I'm the only one who still talks about him tripping his own feet on the way to score a touchdown.(smile) Stay funny buddy, see you soon

Charlie

Kevin Casey

March 10, 2004

So that is where Rhonda gets her own loud laugh, infectious smile, and joy for life--he lives on through her and all others he touched.

Rhonda Lawson

March 9, 2004

It took me a while to finally decide to write in the guest book. This is still very difficult for me and my siblings. It is good to know that people still remember his loud laugh, his infectious smile, and his joy for life.

Carla Nelson Scott

March 6, 2004

Cousin Alfonzo, we had just established a great friendship. As I planned last year's family reunion, we talked a lot. You would call me whenever you returned from Germany and we talked over email a lot. Our talks were great! I was looking forward to you teaching me golf this year. I was going to schedule the next Fauntroy reunion around your summer schedule so that you could make it. Now, the only place we can meet is during the reunion in heaven, and I can't wait to see there. You will be forever in my heart. Your entrepreneur spirit and your zest for life will always live in me. I miss you so much. You left us way too early. Love, Your Twin Cousin, Carla

Terry and Charlie Zimmer

March 6, 2004

Al was one of our favorite people. He often talked about his family. He will be missed by all who were lucky enough to know him and will forever remain in our hearts and prayers.

Beulah Blackson-Waters & Family

February 27, 2004

We call upon God because death has invaded the lives and homes of our family and dear ones. Help us to know that God is very close to us. Give us the assurance that we will sorrow not without hope.

Trish Spencer

February 25, 2004

Al was my friend, and my teacher. As my therapist he was the most loving, nuturing father I ever had. He was a bright spark with his infectious laugh, intuitive deductions, and great sense of humor. He was truly a wise man. And just had so much love that he spread around so generously. I will always hear his chuckle in my head and his loud, happy laughter. I will also carry his teachings in my head and strive to live by them, feeling my feelings and expressing them, and loving and respecting myself and others in my life.

Thank-you Al for all your many gifts. You changed my life so much for the better! I love you! I miss your big bear hugs!!

Tara Harold

February 23, 2004

Dear Al,

Of all the people I know, you lived the life you wanted and enjoyed it thoroughly. I aspire to be as you; you are loved and will be greatly missed. Without your help, I would not know how to be the person I am now, and for that I thank you.

Much Love,

Tara

maria lawson

February 23, 2004

Uncle Alphonza we will really miss you. Now all the boys are together again.

Uncle Al was my father's baby brother (Edward, died 1983). There are 3 of us: me, Edward Jr. and Angela; 4 grandchildren and our mother, Betty.

Special prayers to the family.

Love,

Betty, Maria, Edward Jr and Angela.

Judi & Joel Moskowitz

February 22, 2004

Little did we know our November visit would be our last in this world.You showed us how to "live" life, and this talent we will pass on to our son, Jeffrey...until we meet again.

JOHN MOMAN

February 21, 2004

AL, MY FRIEND, I WILL MISS YOU, BUT WE WILL MEET AGAIN.

leonard walker

February 20, 2004

I played golf with Al during his visits to Phx. God bless you Al, I will miss you.

The Walker family

delores griffin

February 20, 2004

Uncle Alphonzo was my mother's brother. She (Fredericka Lawson Griffin) passed away on 10/08/02. He was the only uncle left on my mother's side of the family. He leave behind two sisters, Delores and Patricia who resign in Greensboro, NC. My heart goes out to all the family of the Lawsons.

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