Jerry T. Lawson, Sr.

Age 86 of Spring Hill, Tennessee, formerly of Illinois, died Monday, July 6, 2026 in Franklin, Tennessee.

Born December 6, 1939 in West Frankfort, Illinois, Jerry Thomas was a son of Paul and Anna (Willmore) Lawson. He was raised in West Frankfort where he graduated from high school. Jerry went on to honorably serve in the United States Army, and on September 22, 1962, he married Mary Melhorn in Joliet, Illinois. Jerry and Mary made their home in Joliet until relocating to Tennessee in 1989.

Jerry was a proud member of the United Auto Workers Union and worked for Fisher Body for many years until retiring in 1984. He was an avid sports fan, cheering on the St. Louis Cardinals, Fighting Illini College Basketball and Football, as well as the Tennessee Titans and Chicago Bears. Jerry had a soft spot for music, especially country music, and even sang in a Quartet when he was younger.

He was a great family man who was idolized by his younger family members for his easy going nature and ability to have a conversation with anyone. Jerry took great pride in family history and was so fortunate to see many family members recently at a family reunion. He was blessed to see his family tree blossom, creating a legacy that will outlast him for years to come.

Survivors include his three children: Linda (Dan) Folsom of Crest Hill, Illinois, Paula Lawson Jandejska of Westmont, Illinois, and Jerry Lawson, Jr. of Spring Hill, Tennessee; three grandchildren: Sarah Jandejska of Westmont, Paul Jandejska of Morris, Illinois, and Jade Sullivan of Springfield, Missouri; three great grandchildren: Maddie Milashoski, Emmett Jandejska, and Elly Jandejska; one sister-in-law: Yvonne Melhorn of Wartburg, Tennessee; as well as countless nieces and nephews.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents; his wife, Mary; and his brother, Donald Lawson.

The family will receive friends at Baskerville Funeral Home, 700 East Kahler Road, in Wilmington on Thursday, July 23, 2026 from 10:00 a.m. until the time of funeral service at 12:30 p.m. Burial with Full Military Honors will follow at Abraham Lincoln National Cemetery in Elwood, Illinois.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.BaskervilleFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Jerry’s memorial page online through social media.

Funeral services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-476-2181)