Charlene Kay Lawson

Charlene (Char) Kay Lawson, 90, of Carmel, Indiana, formerly of Coldwater, Michigan, passed away peacefully on Thursday, January 8, 2026, in Carmel.

Born on October 27, 1935, in Southgate, Kentucky, Char was the daughter of Charles and Mildred Benzing. She graduated from Newport High School in 1953 and married the love of her life, Andrew Jackson “Jack” Lawson, on October 30, 1954. Jack preceded her in death on June 16, 2000.

Char possessed a remarkable gift for music, which she shared generously throughout her life. She played piano, organ, violin, and percussion, directed choirs, sang, danced, and taught both children and adults. Wherever she lived, Char brought her musical talents to her community, enriching the lives of those around her.

Char was blessed with a spirit full of faith, gratitude, courage, optimism, and joy. Her heart was full of kindness that naturally reached out to help those who had less. Those qualities shaped her life and allowed her to build warm, meaningful relationships and friendships that endured through the years. She and Jack found great happiness in opening their home, welcoming friends, family, and neighbors with warmth and generosity.

Throughout her life, Char and Jack made homes in Kentucky, Ohio, New Mexico, California, Illinois, Florida, and Michigan, and along the way they explored the world together—visiting places like China, Russia, and the islands of the Caribbean.

She was a devoted member of Hazel Crest United Methodist Church in Illinois and later of the First Presbyterian Church in Michigan, where she generously shared her musical gifts, directing and singing in the choir with enthusiasm and grace.

Char’s greatest joy was her family. She is survived by her sons, Brian (Tamra) Lawson of Park Hills, Kentucky, and Craig (Tammy) Lawson of Carmel, Indiana; her grandchildren Benjamin (Sally) Lawson, Gregory (Emily) Lawson, and Andrew Lawson; and her great‑grandchildren Beatrice, Jack, Cora, and Annabelle Lawson. She is also survived by many beloved cousins.

Char was preceded in death by her husband, Jack; her parents; two brothers, Charles and Clarence; and one sister, Janet.

A celebration of her life will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, please consider making a donation to your favorite charity or church in Char's memory.