Minerva Lawson

Minerva Lawson was born on January 1, 1931, in Demopolis, Alabama. She was one of four children born to the late John Lawson Sr. and Rebecca Bell Lawson. She was also preceded in death by her stepmother, Minnie Lawson, and her brothers, Jesse Lawson, Lincoln Lawson and niece Anita Parks.

At the age of six, Minerva began taking piano lessons, discovering a gift and passion for music that would shape much of her life. She later attended the Conservatory of Music and went on to serve faithfully as Minister of Music for several churches in Cincinnati, Ohio, including St Paul A.M.E. Church. Throughout her distinguished musical career, she had the honor of playing for the inaugurations of two Ohio governors.

In addition to her musical accomplishments, Minerva was a dedicated and hardworking professional. She worked as a merchandise processor at the Family Bargain Shop, served as Office Manager for Jones & Jones Insurance, and devoted fifty-nine years of service as a poll worker with the Hamilton County Board of Elections. After retirement she volunteered with People Working Cooperatively for many years. Minerva was also an accomplished portrait artist.

Minerva was a proud member of the Woodward High School Class of 1949. She faithfully served as a Lifetime Alumni Association Trustee and was honored as the Bell Ringer in 2020 and 2021, where she graciously played the piano at alumni luncheons.

She leaves to cherish her loving memories: one daughter, Michelle Lawson Biggs of Los Angeles, California; one son, Bruce Lawson of Cincinnati, Ohio; three brothers, Jimmie (Whitney), Larry (Juliet), and Kenny Lawson, all of Cincinnati, Ohio; one granddaughter, Angelica Bell (Craig) of Arizona; and four great-grandchildren, Ace, Naya, Cross, and Naomi. She also leaves two nephews, Cory Lawson and Demetrius Lawson; one niece, Barbette Thompson (late Joseph); and a host of relatives and dear friends.

Minerva’s legacy of music, service, dedication, and love will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew her.

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