Barbara Ellen Lawson's Obituary
Barbara Ellen Lawson, age 88, passed from this life on June 22, 2026, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. She was born on February 13, 1938, in Morris, Oklahoma to her parents, Othel Orbie Whomble and Mildred June (Whitaker) Whomble.
To Barbara, family was everything. Her life found its greatest joy and purpose in the people she loved. On May 19, 1956, in Liberty Morris, Oklahoma, she married the love of her life, Vernon Lawson Jr. Their marriage was a true partnership; steadfast, devoted, and filled with the kind of quiet strength that anchors a family. Together they welcomed four children, who quickly became the center of Barbara’s world and the heartbeat of her days.
Barbara had a love for NASCAR, and she proudly cheered for her favorite driver, Jeff Gordon. Over the years she built an impressive collection of NASCAR memorabilia, especially items celebrating Gordon’s career. Her enthusiasm for racing was matched only by her love of sports in general. Whether it was basketball, football, or a fast‑paced race, Barbara was happiest with a game on the screen and her family nearby. Though she occasionally enjoyed a Hallmark movie, she would choose the thrill of a race or the energy of a game every time.
Barbara’s life was defined by loyalty, love, and the simple joys that made her smile. She will be remembered for her warmth, her unwavering devotion to her family, and the passion she brought to the things she loved. Her presence will be deeply missed, and her memory will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
She is preceded in death by her husband Vernon Lawson Jr., and her parents Othel and Mildred Whomble, her daughter Kathleen Gibson, and 2 grandsons, Zachary Palmer and Joshua Robinson. Left to honor Barbara’s legacy are her children Toni Palmer and her husband Mark, Thomas Lawson and his wife Julie, and Patrick Lawson and his wife Susan; brother Danny Whomble; sister Sandra Whomble; 10 grandchildren; 20 great grandchildren; and a great-great granddaughter; along with other family members and friends.
A visitation to come and pay your respects to Barbara will be held on Sunday, June 28th from 1pm-5pm at Floral Haven Funeral Home in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma. A celebration of her life will be held on Monday, June 29th at 2pm in Floral Haven's Rose Chapel. Barbara will be laid to rest at Floral Haven Memorial Gardens.
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