Zanda Ray Lawson

McMinnville, TN resident and Dekalb County, TN native Zanda Ray Lawson, age 75, was born August 21, 1947 and died July 10, 2023 at NHC Healthcare of McMinnville following an extended illness.

She was the daughter of the late Grady Jewell and Nettie Mae Ferrell Hawkins. She was married to Donnie C. Lawson, Sr. and Joe Elkins, both who preceded her in death. In addition to her parents and husbands, she was preceded in death by son, Daniel Lawson.

Mrs. Lawson is survived by son, Donnie C. (Marva) Lawson, Jr. of Pikeville, TN; daughters, Teresa Ann Lawson of McMinnville, TN and Trina Kay (Wayne) Young of Rock Island, TN; nine grandchildren, Joy Kay Young, Grace Itira Young, Joshua Wayne Young, Elijah Love Young, Isaac Jacob Young, Laura (Richard) Keedy, Jessica (Eric) Angel, Mindy (Dereck) Stone and Sabrina (Rich) Pekarz; twelve, great-grandchildren; one great-great grandchild; daughter-in-law, Becky Lynn Lawson of McMinnville, TN; two brothers, Ricky (Debra) Hawkins of Tracy City, TN and Randy Hawkins of Smithville, TN; sister, Linda Cumby of Cookeville, TN and many nieces, nephews and extended family.

Zanda was well-loved and highly honored by her children, grandchildren, and family. She was a member of Anointed Unity Church and the elder elect lady. She was inspired by God to write Sermons in Songs, which she did wonderfully. She loved God with all her heart and showed that in her lifestyle. She was a gospel-only guitarist, pianist, psalmist, artist, songwriter, encourager, singer, Sunday school teacher, and worshiper of God. She enjoyed gardening and growing flowers and loved spending time with family and friends.

Throughout her life, she worked as a seamstress, shoemaker and caretaker. She was a nursery worker for her late son, Daniel Lawson and a courier for her daughter-in-law Becky’s business delivering to Warren and surrounding counties. 

Funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Saturday, July 15, 2023 in High’s Chapel with Donnie Lawson officiating. Burial will follow at Banks Cemetery in Dekalb County, TN. Visitation will be Friday 3:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. until time of service at High Funeral Home. 

A special thanks to Joy, Grace, Joshua, Elijah, Isaac, Wayne, Trina, Teresa and Donnie who loved and cared for her throughout her time of illness. She will be missed by all who loved her and no one could ever take her place. In her own words, “I’ll see you in a little while.” 

Online condolences may be made at www.highfuneralhome.com.

High Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.