Celebration of Life
Kenneth Johns Lawson
September 4, 1961 – January 2026
Saturday, May 23, 2026 | 2:00–4:00 p.m. Central Time
Cypress Moon Studios | 1000 Alabama Ave, Sheffield, Alabama 35660
Born in Florence, Alabama, Kenneth Johns Lawson was the fourth child of Raymond Neill and Charlotte Johns Lawson. A long-time member of the Quad Cities creative community, Ken was a cherished friend to artists, musicians, and fellow actors. He was passionately committed to theater and widely respected for his gifts as a character actor, bringing his full talent to every role, from playing Santa Claus on WOWL and WTRT to portraying Leon Czolgosz in Sondheim’s Assassins. He also earned praise for his work in productions of Ivy Green’s, The Miracle Worker, having played both James Keller and Captain Keller at different times. In addition to acting, Ken has worked as a stage director and writer.
Beyond the Quad Cities, Ken lived in Tallahassee, FL; Birmingham, AL; Nashville, TN; and briefly in Denver, CO. He loved sports, playing little league football in school and remaining a lifelong Florida State University football fan. He also enjoyed bowling, cards, and throwing horseshoes.
In 2019, Ken retired and moved to Belleville, Michigan, where he shared his life with his beloved companion, Tribble the cat. He spent his days reading, watching movies, and taking long walks, and was known as a warm and helpful neighbor who will be deeply missed.
Ken passed away at home in late January 2026. He was preceded in death by his parents, his beloved brother-in-law Mitch Faulkner, and his best friend Byron Wilkes. He is survived by three sisters: Jennifer (Dwayne) Thompson, Annette Faulkner, and Samantha (Gene) Thigpen; one brother, Mike (Karen) Lawson; one niece; eight nephews; five great-nieces; five grandnephews; and dear friend Lane Cooper; and dear friend and former wife, Anna Eastep Roden.
In Ken’s memory, please support your local creative communities and animal rescues by attending shows, purchasing art, and making donations.
