Rev. Robert C. Lawson

Rev. Robert C. Lawson, lovingly known as “Bob”, “Bro. Bob”, “Papa Bob”, age 76, went home to be with the Lord on Friday, June 14, 2024. Bob was born in Chattanooga, Tennessee on February 29, 1948; moved to Knoxville (age 7), where he graduated from Fulton High School; and resided in Alcoa, Tennessee since 2001.

Bob was passionate about music including an early career in Christian radio and broadcasting. Bob answered God’s call to ministry and was ordained in 2000; he served as pastor at Armona Baptist Church (Alcoa) until his retirement in September 2019. Bob faithfully testified of the Lord Jesus in his life and ministry; he loved serving as a pastor and was an avid participant in and supporter of missions. Bob was known by all for his great love for his family and any person who crossed his path. He never met a stranger but instead displayed love and grace in his interactions with others. Though much more could be said of Bob’s impact in this world, he never wanted glory for himself but always humbly deflected glory to Jesus Christ and recognition to others.

Bob was preceded in death by: father, Bernard Robert Lawson; mother, Kathlyn Goldberg Lawson. Bob is survived by: loving wife of 45 years, Theddie Lawson; daughter, Abbey Lawson Roff; son-in-law, Sam Roff; grandson, Atlas Roff; brother, Gary Lawson (Karen); in-laws, David & Marcia Messer and Gary & Lisa Messer; many cousins, nieces, and nephews whom he loved dearly.

Family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:45 PM, Thursday, June 20, 2024 at Smith Trinity Chapel. Funeral service will be at 7:00 PM with Rev. Gene Hurley officiating. Family and friends will assemble for interment at 11:00 AM, Friday, June 21, 2024 at Dogwood Baptist Church Cemetery (Roane County). Flowers are welcome -OR- in lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to: International Mission Board, St. Jude Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105, CBN 700 Club Operation Blessing, or Chilhowee Baptist Center (Chilhowee Baptist Association). Smith Funeral and Cremation Service, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremationService, Maryville, 865-983-1000, www.SmithFuneralandCremation.com.