Stanley R. Lawson

Stanley R. Lawson, Sr., was a devoted son, father, public servant, and community leader whose life's work was dedicated to equality, justice, and service to others. He passed away peacefully on October 28, 2025, surrounded by his loving family, at the age of 84.

Born in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, on August 17, 1941, Stan was the beloved son of the late James W. Lawson, Sr. and Catherine E. Slaughter Lawson. He was preceded in death by his cherished siblings Richard and Ronald Lawson and Caroline Mills.

Stan proudly served his country in the United States Navy during the Vietnam Era from 1960 to 1964. Upon returning home to Harrisburg, he devoted himself to a distinguished career in public service, spanning more than five decades and leaving an enduring impact on his community.

As a trailblazer in Central Pennsylvania politics and civil rights, Stan shattered barriers and redefined what was possible for African Americans in leadership and public service. He made history as the first African American elected to the Harrisburg City Council, where he later served with distinction as Vice President in the early 1970s. His groundbreaking path continued as he became the first African American President of the Susquehanna Township Board of Commissioners, the first African American President of AFSCME Council #13, and the first African American Chairman of the Dauphin County Republican Committee. In each of these roles, Stan led with integrity, conviction, and courage, paving the way for future generations of leaders to follow in his footsteps.

Deeply committed to advancing civil rights, Stan served as President of the Greater Harrisburg Area NAACP for more than a decade, becoming one of the longest-serving presidents in the organization's Pennsylvania history. Under his steadfast leadership, he brought together community members, elected officials, and faith leaders in a shared pursuit of justice, equality, and opportunity for all.

In addition to his political and civic accomplishments, Stan was a devoted man of faith and a respected Deacon at the First Spirit Filled Missionary Baptist Church, where he was ordained in 2009. His faith was the foundation of his service, compassion, and unwavering belief in the power of God and the strength of his community.

A man of purpose and enterprise, Stan expanded his family's business ventures throughout the 1990s, establishing and managing Lawson's Grocery, Stan Lawson's Palace, and multiple residential and commercial real estate enterprises. His entrepreneurial spirit, vision, and tireless work ethic inspired countless individuals across the Harrisburg region.

He is survived by his devoted brothers, James W. Lawson, Jr. and Gary Lawson; his beloved sons, Stanley R. Lawson, Jr. and Richard H. Lawson, and Richard's wife, Tiffany C. Lawson; his cherished grandchildren, Stanley I. Lawson and Kaitlyn Lawson; and a host of loving nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who will forever cherish and honor his memory.

Stan's life was a shining testament to service, perseverance, and faith. He dedicated himself to building a stronger, more compassionate community and to empowering the next generation to carry forward the work he began with unwavering passion and purpose. His impact lives on in the countless lives he touched, the institutions he strengthened, and the values he instilled in all who knew him. Stan's light will forever endure, illuminating the path of justice, faith, and love for generations to come.