Muldrow Mourns the Loss of Community Pillar and Veteran Lawman Sgt. George Lawson Jr.
MULDROW, Okla. — The community of Muldrow and the surrounding Eastern Oklahoma region are mourning the passing of Sergeant George Elbert Lawson Jr., a dedicated law enforcement officer, public servant, and beloved family man who spent decades in service to his neighbors. Lawson passed away on July 27, 2026, at the age of 71.
Affectionately known by many as "Big G" and to his grandchildren as "Poppop," Lawson left behind a legacy defined by faith, integrity, and selflessness, serving both as a decorated police officer and an active civic volunteer in Sequoyah County.
A Career Built on Protection and Justice
Born in Paris, Arkansas, on April 29, 1955, to George Elbert Lawson Sr. and Bonnie Rose Lawson, George grew up steeped in the tradition of public service. A 1973 graduate of Southside High School in Fort Smith, he officially entered law enforcement on May 30, 1977, joining the Fort Smith Police Department just two years after his father’s retirement from the force.
Over his 36-year tenure with the Fort Smith Police Department, Lawson served across numerous divisions, including Patrol, the Motorcycle Unit, Narcotics, Training and Recruiting, and the Bicycle Unit.
His work in the Major Crimes Unit stood out as a hallmark of his career. Tasked with solving homicides, armed robberies, and cold cases, Lawson contributed to a celebrated three-year streak during which every single crime assigned to the unit was successfully solved, bringing closure to families after years of uncertainty. He retired from Fort Smith on December 31, 2013.
Dedication to Muldrow and Liberty
Lawson’s dedication to public service did not pause with his retirement in Arkansas. Settling in Sequoyah County, he continued to protect and support his home community in Oklahoma.
He joined the Muldrow Police Department in August 2013, serving through February 2023. Beyond wearing the badge, Lawson was deeply embedded in local civic life, serving as a member of the Liberty School Board and volunteering with the Liberty Fire Department. Whether coaching youth softball, attending school functions, or helping maintain local emergency services, Lawson was widely recognized as a steadfast pillar for Muldrow and the Liberty area.
Faith, Family, and Community Legacy
Beyond his professional achievements, those who knew Lawson remembered his warmth, generous spirit, and deep Christian faith. A long-time member of Cornerstone Free Will Baptist Church in Muldrow, Lawson was known for leading by example, extending an open hand to neighbors, and sharing encouragement with everyone he met.
He is survived by his wife of 46 years, Lu Emma Jane (Trammell) Lawson, whom he married in Roland, Oklahoma, in 1980; his daughters, Krysta Nicole Ballard and Kerrye Anne Lawson of Muldrow; five grandchildren; his sister, Margaret Painter; and numerous extended family members and friends.
Funeral Services
A public visitation was held on Friday, July 31, 2026, at Lewis Funeral Chapel in Fort Smith. Funeral services were conducted on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at Evangel Temple Assembly of God in Fort Smith, officiated by Pastor Kevin Johnson, followed by burial at Liberty Cemetery in Muldrow.
Members of both the Fort Smith and Muldrow Police Departments, along with the Liberty Volunteer Fire Department, served among the pallbearers and honorary pallbearers, honoring a life spent in tireless service to others.
