Thelma Roberta Lawson was born on October 20, 1952, in Blackton Arkansas. She was the third child and only daughter of  Robert and Melba Dunavan. She became affectionately known as Sissy and  graduated in 1969 from Holly Grove High School.

On April 2, 1971, Thelma 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, Thelma 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, Thelma 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, Arkansas. 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.

On February 25, 2025, at the age of 72 Thelma peacefully passed away in Jonesboro . She was preceded in death by her parents Robert Isaac and Melba Jewel Dunavan, as well as her brothers Billy and Bobby Dunavan.

She is survived by her loving husband of 54 years, Phillip Michael Lawson; daughters Laura (Kerry) Ward and Tricia (Barret) Flagg; her 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.

A graveside service will be held at 12:00 on Friday, February 28, at the Blackton Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to be made to the Blackton Cemetery at Merchant and Planters Bank in Clarendon.