Updated: Sep 8, 2026
Brian Keith Lawson, 56, of Axton, Virginia, passed away on September 4, 2026, following a courageous battle with leukemia.
Brian was remembered by his family and community as a devoted husband, father, grandfather, friend and public servant. For 29 years, he dedicated himself to serving and protecting others through his work as a veteran of the United States Army and a Henry County Sheriff’s Officer.
Born on February 4, 1970, to Jo Anne (Ronnie) Earles and Thomas (Bonnie) Lawson, Brian grew into a life defined by service, family and faith. His career in law enforcement was more than employment. It was a calling that allowed him to serve his community with courage, integrity, compassion and a strong sense of duty.
After 29 years of faithful service, Brian retired with the respect and gratitude of those he worked alongside and the people he helped protect.
While his military and law enforcement service formed an important part of his life, Brian’s greatest source of happiness was his family.
He and his wife, Brenda Parcell Lawson, shared 35 years of marriage. To his children, Jenna and Dylan, he was simply “Daddy.” To his grandchildren, he was “Papaw.” To Brenda, he was affectionately known as “stud muffin.”
Family members remembered Brian as someone they could depend on for guidance, protection, encouragement and love. He taught those around him the importance of strength, kindness, honesty and standing up for what is right.
Brian was also known for his infectious laugh, quick wit and seemingly endless supply of jokes. His humor brought warmth to family gatherings and everyday moments.
Brian’s interests reflected his adventurous and generous personality. He enjoyed scuba diving, hunting and making crosses. He also participated in Emmaus Walks, an experience connected closely with his Christian faith and service to others.
He was a proud member of Mount Vernon Baptist Church in Axton, Virginia.
During his illness, Brian continued to demonstrate the determination and faith that had characterized his life. His family remembered the courage with which he faced leukemia and the concern he continued to show for the people around him.
His kindness, humor, faith and love remain part of the memories shared by those who knew him.
Brian is survived by his wife, Brenda Parcell Lawson; his children, Jenna (Drew) Carawan and Dylan (Brooke) Lawson; and his grandchildren, Natalie, Elijah, Juliette and Whittyn.
He is also survived by his sisters, Anita (Bruce) Carter, Lori (Wes) Colemen, Rhonda (Bobby) East, Donna (Donnie) Shough and Tammy (Doug) Fain, along with extended family, friends, fellow officers and community members.
He was preceded in death by his father, Ronnie Dale Earles; grandfather, Jack Earles; grandparents Aubrey and Virginia Haley; and grandparents Nick and Lucinda Lawson.
A visitation will be held from 5 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at Freedom Baptist Church, 790 Irisburg Road, Axton, Virginia 24054.
Funeral services will take place at 11 a.m. Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at Freedom Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Earles Family Cemetery, 273 Collins Road, Axton, Virginia 24054.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations to the Dan River Emmaus Walk, one of Brian’s passions. Donations may be made to Dan River Emmaus Walk, 16 Lawless Drive, Fieldale, Virginia. The family also expressed special appreciation to the team at UVA Hospital and Cancer Center for their care.
The obituary was humbly submitted by Brian’s family. Wright Funeral Service & Crematory is serving the Lawson family. Friends and loved ones may leave online condolences through the funeral home’s website.