Ralph Jennings Lawson, a cherished community leader and dedicated family man, passed away on June 12, 2024, at the age of 91. Born on August 4, 1932, in Speegleville, Texas, Ralph was the beloved son of William Jennings Lawson and Willie Evelyn Ferguson Lawson. His family moved to Waco, Texas, when he was eight years old.

Ralph attended public schools in Waco, where he thrived and developed a deep love for baseball through the Waco Boys Club, YMCA, and American League Baseball. After enrolling in Arlington State College, his passion for the sport led him to sign a contract with the Chicago Cubs' farm team, playing minor league baseball in the KOM (Kansas-Oklahoma-Missouri) League. After his minor league career, Ralph returned to Waco and became a key player for the Palace Club baseball team, which won the State of Texas semi-pro championship. His final time on the baseball diamond was with the Calvert fast pitch softball team, which boasted an impressive record of 85-4 over his three years and won the World Softball Championship in Phoenix in 1951.

Following his baseball career, Ralph attended North Texas State University for one semester before joining the US Army with his best friend John Hickey. He underwent infantry basic training in Roberts, CA and further training at Ft. Bragg, NC, and Ft. Lewis, WA. Ralph served with distinction in Korea for 16 months and upon returning to the United States, was discharged as an Army Sergeant.

Ralph then attended the University of Texas at Austin, earning a degree in economics. He began working as an insurance adjuster in Austin, where Ralph met the love of his life, Moselle Smither, often fondly referred to as "Mo - the sweetest woman in the world," and they married in 1958. Their union was a testament to enduring love and partnership, spanning nearly seven decades.  The newlywed couple moved to Mo's hometown of Huntsville, Texas, in 1960. There, Ralph managed the Huntsville Savings & Loan Association for over 20 years before selling the company. He then partnered with his close friend Bill Hodges to start Budget Sales & Rentals, providing rental furniture to students at Sam Houston State University.

During the economic downturn of the 1980s, Ralph's leadership shone as he joined the Board of First National Bank of Huntsville. When the economy worsened, Ralph was appointed bank President, successfully turning the bank around with the support of his team and Board. He retired from First National Bank in 1995 and found a new passion in ranching with his good friend Darrell White, the long-time sheriff of Walker County. Throughout all his years in Huntsville, Ralph spent many hours on the tennis court with good friends and enjoyed painting as a hobby. A lucky few have an original RLawson oil painting hanging in their home.

Ralph was deeply influenced and mentored by his father-in-law, Wilbur "Doc" Smither, whom he often called the smartest businessman in Huntsville.

Ralph and Mo dedicated themselves to their community, becoming involved in various local initiatives and charitable activities. His contributions to the Huntsville community were numerous and far-reaching, and he is remembered for his generosity and steadfast support and love of friends and acquaintances. Ralph was known for his unwavering commitment to service, often volunteering at community events, mentoring young people, and advocating for local causes. Ralph's kindness, wisdom, and generosity left an indelible mark and his life was a shining example of selflessness and dedication. The manner in which he lived his life earned him great admiration and respect. Some of Ralph's fondest memories were derived from his service for many years on the Deacon Board at Northside Baptist Church, including his close friend and pastor Reagan Cooksey. He will be deeply missed, but his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege of knowing him. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend, whose gentle spirit and warm smile could light up any room. His legacy as a community pillar and loving family man will be cherished and remembered by all.  His legacy is carried on by his beloved Mo, their children and grandchildren who will continue to honor his memory by living lives filled with compassion and service.  Ralph's love for the game of baseball was surpassed only by his devotion to his family and community.

Ralph is survived by his wife Moselle Smither Lawson, daughter Denise "Nesi" Lawson, son John Lawson and his wife Missy, granddaughter Mary Ralph Lawson Bradley and her husband Houston, granddaughter Lyle Jennings Lawson Nagel and her husband Jackson, and many wonderful cousins, nieces, and nephews. He was predeceased by his sister-in-law Mary Sue Smither Coffman and her husband Joe.

A celebration of Ralph's life will be held at Northside Baptist Church on August 4, 2024 at 2 PM, a date that fittingly would have been his 92nd birthday.