Shirley Mae (Stephens) Lawson

Shirley Mae Lawson, of Russell Springs, passed away on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at her home. She was 82 years of age.

Shirley was born on August 13, 1943, in Jabez, the only child born to the union of George Wade and Edith Eastham Stephens. Shirley graduated from college in 1965 and began her teaching career at Nancy High School. She remained at Nancy until 1971, when she transferred to Russell County High School, serving as Guidance Counselor for the next 25 years, retiring in 1996. After retirement, Shirley was a Longaberger consultant for many years. She was an avid flower lover and enjoyed her flower gardens. Shirley professed her faith in Christ and was a member of Bethlehem Separate Baptist Church.

Shirley is survived by her beloved husband, Billy Lawson, of Russell Springs, whom she wed on October 26, 1963; her son, Barry (and Nenna) Lawson, of Russell Springs; and two grandson who were precious in her life, Brannon Lawson and Nathan Lawson. Shirley is also survived by one sister-in-law, Charlotte (and Dwight) Bennett, of Beech Grove, Indiana; one niece Lori (and Jim) Farnworth, of Indiana; one nephew, Chris (and Michelle) Bennett, of Indiana; great-nieces and great-nephews, Lucas, Lucy, Grace, Jason, Bryce, Arlo, and Ezra; and a cousin, Harold Dalton, of Weldon, Illinois. 

In addition to her parents, Shirley was preceded in death by her aunts, Audrey Eastham and Kathleen Dalton.

Funeral services are 1:00 P.M. on Monday, March 16, 2026, at Bernard Funeral Home, with Brother Daryl Coe officiating. Burial will follow in Bethlehem Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5:00-8:00 P.M. on Sunday, March 15, 2026, and from 7:30 A.M. until the time of services on Monday, at Bernard Funeral Home.

Pallbearers are Brannon Lawson, Nathan Lawson, Wayne Lynch, Billy Andrew, Donnie Cooper, and Chris Bennett.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations of sympathy be made to the Gideon’s International. Donations can be made at the funeral home.

Funeral arrangements for Mrs. Shirley Mae Lawson are under the care and direction of Bernard Funeral Home. An online guestbook is available www.bernardfuneralhome.com.

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