Lee Ernest Lawson

Lee Ernest Lawson, 51, died Nov. 29, 2007, at Tuomey Regional Medical Center in Sumter.

Born July 3, 1956, in Clarendon County, he was a son of the late Cleveland Lawson Sr. and the late Idella Williams Lawson. Lee Ernest received his education in the public schools of Clarendon County. In his youth, he joined Taw Caw Missionary Baptist Church. He was joined in holy matrimony to the late Jerline Rhames Lawson.

He was predeceased a brother, James Phillip Lawson.

Those left to grow from his love and celebrate his homegoing are two daughters, Verneshia (Robert) Tindal of Sumter and Vernessa (James) Mathis of Summerton; a granddaughter, Vernedra Williams of Sumter; seven sisters, Evangelist Elreatha Lawson, Della Mae Lawson, Annie Mae (Alfred) Lewis and Hattie Mae David, all of Summerton, Cleo (James) Abbott of Queens, N.Y., LaSharon (Derrick) Thomas of Raeford, N.C., and Tina (Pastor Robert) James of Rimini; five brothers, Cleveland (Lucretia) Lawson Jr. and Evander Lawson, both of Summerton, Robert Lawson and Freddie Lawson, both of Brooklyn, N.Y., and Willie Lawson of Miami; his mother-in-law, Betty Jean Merchant; two sisters-in-law, Jean Richburg and Arlene Rhames, both of Summerton; two brothers-in-law, Tyrone Merchant and Ernest Lee Richburg, both of Summerton; three uncles; 10 aunts; two very special and dear friends, Sarah Pearson and Christopher Foye, both of Summerton; and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Funeral services were held on Fridsy, Dec. 7, 2007, at Taw Caw Missionary Baptist Church with the Rev. Dr. William T. Johnson, pastor, officiating.

Burial followed in the St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church cemetery.

Summerton Funeral Service was in charge of the arrangements.