Jerilyn Lawson-Garrison

Jerilyn Norma Lawson, 80 years old, fell asleep peacefully on Friday, October 7th, 2022, at Hospice of Northwest Ohio with her beloved granddaughter by her side.

Jerilyn was born on March 10, 1942, in Toledo, Ohio to parents John and Elizabeth Lawson. After graduating from Scott High School in 1960, she soon dedicated her life as one of Jehovah’s Witnesses and was baptized in 1961. She married Paul Garrison, in which they had 3 beautiful children together.

Jerlilyn loved children! She soon became a favorite amongst them as their bus driver for Toledo Public Schools, where she worked and retired after 20 years, alongside her two sisters, niece, and friends from the Kingdom Hall.

Jerilyn brought charisma, compassion and joy into people's lives. Her humor was contagious. She loved to dance (hustles), never losing the rhythm even if wheelchair bound; was an avid cook known for her peach cobbler, bread pudding, homemade dinner rolls, and baked mac & cheese… just to name a few! Jerilyn’s warm heart often cared and loved for children as if they were her own. She passionately preached to all her family and loved ones, wanting them to all have a hope for the future. Leaving her presence often made you feel encouraged and appreciated.

Jerilyn Lawson is preceded in death by her parents, John and Elizabeth Lawson; brothers, John, Henry and Kendall Lawson; sisters, Carol Randall, Phyllis Lawson; and daughter, Rita Holloway. She is survived by brother, Warren (Thelma) Lawson of Washington D.C.; sisters, JoAnne Carter and Robin Lightner of Toledo, Ohio; daughter, Tracy (Vonell) Henry of Toledo, Ohio; son, Paul Garrison Jr. of Toledo, Ohio; niece, Sophia Sparks; adopted daughter, Lisa Reynolds; grandchildren, Tina, Marcus, Trelyn, Angel, and many great grandchildren, nieces and nephews.

Jerilyn will be lovingly remembered.