Thomas "Tom" Ray Lawson

Thomas “Tom” Ray Lawson, age 62, died peacefully after a hard-fought battle with cancer when he went to be with the Lord on Tuesday, December 19th, 2017 at 5:00pm at his home in Norman, OK. Tom was born in Columbus, OH on October 4th, 1955 to the late James and Carol Lawson, and in his younger years was extremely proud to be a part of the Little Buckeyes youth football team.

Tom graduated from Norman High School and later attended the University of Oklahoma, where he was a proud member of the Sigma Alpha Epsilon fraternity. While attending OU, he met his first wife, Janne McLendon. The two raised three children and Tom took pride in always being their basketball coach throughout their early years.

Tom’s working career started as a sales representative for Nike, where he quickly moved up the ranks to become the manager of the Midwest region. During his years with Nike, Tom and his family lived in Arkansas, Texas, Oregon, and Illinois. This career path eventually led the family back to Norman, where he started his own athletic apparel line, BigTime.
Tom was an active member in the churches he attended and was a true follower of Christ. He eventually met Joan Ralstin, and the two wed on August 31st, 2007. Tom and Joan always enjoyed sitting out on their back patio, drinking coffee and playing golf in the evenings at The Trails Golf Club in Norman. Most of all, he enjoyed spending time with his family and three grandchildren, who referred to him as “Coach.”

Tom is survived by: his wife Joan Lawson; brother Mike Lawson and wife Amy; son T.J. Lawson and wife Katie; son Tyke Lawson and wife Allie; grandchildren Tucker Lawson, Leighton Lawson, and Piper Rainer; step-son Ryan Rainer and wife Amanda; step-daughter Molly Ralstin; and nieces and nephews. Tom was met at the Heavenly gates by: parents James and Carol Lawson; brother Don Lawson; and son Joe Lawson.

Tom’s family has entrusted his care to Tribute Memorial Care in Norman. Tom will be laid to rest at Resthaven Cemetery in Oklahoma City, OK in a private family service.