Juanita L. “Needy” Lawson, age 91, of Sweetser, peacefully passed away on Saturday, January 6, 2024. She was born in Jalapa, Indiana, on January 14, 1932, to the late Lawrence “Jum” and Mary C. Lawson.
Juanita attended elementary school in Cart Creek and graduated from Sweetser High School in 1949. She was employed at RCA for several years before working at General Motors for 15 years. She retired in 1991. She was a member of the Moose Lodge, VFW, American Legion, and Amvets.
Juanita was a sports fanatic. She played first base in softball for the Marion Queens, where they won the State Championship, and this is how she earned the nickname SUDS. She also golfed and bowled. Juanita was a fishing enthusiast and enjoyed many days fishing with her family and friends. She always had a sports game playing on the TV or radio. She especially liked watching the Chicago Cubs, Purdue women’s basketball, and Indiana basketball. She frequented sporting events of her nieces and nephews. Aunt Needy was their biggest fan. She also enjoyed crossword puzzles and gardening.
Juanita was a gentle, loving, and caring person. She delighted in spending time with her family and friends. She will be greatly missed by all who knew her.
Juanita is survived by her brother, Jay (Diane) Lawson of Sweetser, and several generations of nieces and nephews whom she adored. She is also survived by the family of her dear friend, Fran Baumgart.
She was also preceded in death by her sisters, Roberta Marcott, Marianna Weaver, and Ruth Horn; brothers, Lyman Wayne, Merle, Earl, and Fred Lawson; and her close friend, Fran Baumgart.
A heartfelt thanks to Emily Lawson, Katy Lawson, and Diana Stout for the hours of loving care they provided. Thank you to the many family and friends who provided transportation when she could no longer drive. Special thanks to Earl and Rita Drummer for being such good neighbors. Thank you to the staff of Suite Living, Colonial Oaks, and Heart to Heart Hospice for the care they provided her for months.
The family will receive visitors from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm on Thursday, January 11, 2024, at Needham-Storey-Wampner Funeral & Cremation Service, North Chapel, 1341 N. Baldwin Ave, Marion, IN.
Immediately following the time of visitation, a service to celebrate Juanita’s life will begin at 1:00 pm with Pastor Matt Stewart officiating. Burial will take place at Gardens of Memory in Marion.
Memorial contributions may be directed to Oak Hill Athletic Boosters in memory of Juanita, 7756 W. Delphi Pike #27, Converse, IN 46919.
Memories may be shared online at www.nswcares.com.
To send flowers to the family of Juanita, please visit our floral store.