George Wayman Lawson Jr.

George Wayman Lawson Jr., passed away on August 11th, 2022. He lived then, at Marquis Piedmont Living Facility.

Mr. Lawson was born on November 3rd, 1936 in Ft. Worth, TX to parents Nancy and George W. Lawson Sr. Together, with sisters Laura, Helen and Jean, they relocated to Portland, OR during World War II. Thereafter, George attended Holladay Elementary School, where he met Lola Wright, plus many other childhood and lifelong friends. Later, taking classes at Washington High School in Portland allowed George to play his instrument with fellow students and their instruments, as they all marched in the annual Rose Festival Parade. His participation in this annual event generated a lifelong love of playing his saxophone for family and friends.

Upon graduation, George formed a four-member rhythm & blues band, featuring his nephew George, friends Dale, Joseph, Lloyd, Raydell, Walter, and Warren. They enjoyed playing music at hotspots like the “Texas Playhouse”, “Cotton Club”, “Upstairs Lounge”, “Fred’s Place” and “The Elks Lodge”. While still in the City of Roses, George and Lola Wright were married together by the 1960’s. The next decade introduced neighborhood changes to the areas of North and Northeast Portland. During this time, personal changes took place between George and Lola, as they were divorced by this time. While remaining in Portland, music related opportunities were presented to George about Seattle, WA in addition to other various cities across the country.

By the 1980’s, George travelled to these areas while playing music with fellow musicians. Once the 1990’s approached, he returned to Portland and began working in a different career area. One of those places was the Portland School District. Another location was the Toyota Auto Import Center. After years of extending himself into different career choices, George retired into another chapter of his life. Years after 2001, George entered the facility of Marquise Piedmont, where he lived prior to his peaceful passing there.

Of those who have preceded George in death are his parents, sisters, and nephews.

Mr. Lawson is survived by daughter, Regina Gibson, grandson Jamari Carter and his spouse Stefanie; granddaughter Jamila Meeks and her spouse Clifford. Other surviving relatives are great-grandchildren Xavior, Diego, and Chancellor in addition to several nephews/nieces.

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