Thelma Roberta Dunavan Lawson

Thelma Roberta Dunavan Lawson of Forrest City passed away February 25, 2025 at the age of 72 in the Jonesboro hospital. She was born October 20, 1952 in Blackton the third child and only daughter of Robert and Melba Dunavan. She became affectionately known as Sissy. She was a 1969 graduate of Holly Grove High School.
On April 2, 1971, she became the wife of Phillip Michael Lawson. They made their home in Colt, and Caldwell before choosing to move to Forrest City, where they remained. Thelma took great pride in her role as a wife and in time, as the mother of two daughters. Not believing her heart could get any fuller, she was introduced to the role of grandmother.
In her working career, Thelma held various roles that included positions with Farm Bureau and Entergy. She ultimately retired in 2013, from M&T Paving after 20 years of dedicated service. In addition to her professional accomplishments, she had many different interests that included bowling, fishing, cooking, gardening, canning and reading. She was also an active member of the Ladies Red Hats Club.
For over two decades, Thelma was a member of the New Prospect Missionary Baptist Church in Colt. Her unwavering belief guided her throughout her lifetime and served as a source of strength and comfort. Those who knew her recognized her for her kindness and compassion for others.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Melba Dunavan; and two brothers, Bobby and Billy Dunavan. Survivors are her loving husband, Phillip Lawson; daughters, Laura (Kerry) Ward and Tricia (Barret) Flagg; grandchildren, Lyndsey (Michael) Coats, Cade (Hannah) Killion, Brook Flagg, and Kennan Flagg; her great-grandchild, Blair Michael Coats; and brothers, Dickie Dunavan and Dale (Maurine) Dunavan.
Graveside service was Friday, February 28 at Blackton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Blackton Cemetery at Merchants & Planters Bank in Clarendon.