Mrs. Brenda Joyce Lawson, 74, of London, formerly of Barbourville, passed away Tuesday evening, August 11, 2026 at St. Joseph London Hospital. She was the daughter of the late Leonard and Mary Townsley Smith born November 25, 1951 at Flat Lick.
Brenda was a devoted homemaker who loved her family dearly. She enjoyed quilting, crocheting, and cooking, especially her famous chicken and dumplings, which were a favorite at every family gathering.
She was a devoted Christian and a lifelong member of Hinkle Branch Holiness Church. She loved singing in church and reading her Bible. Brenda had a true servant’s heart and was always there to care for her family and anyone in need.
On August 28, 1970, she united in marriage with Jack Lawson Sr., who preceded her in death.
In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Jack Lawson Jr. and sister, Patty Lynn Smith.
Survivors include a daughter, Amy Lester and husband, Mark, of London; a brother, Larry Smith and wife, Pansy, of Flat Lick; a special granddaughter and caregiver, Patty Mills of London and granddaughters, Emily Murphy and husband, D. J., of Corbin and Mary Jordan and husband, Nick, of Barbourville; great grandchildren, Nixon Jordan, Brenna Mills, Nolan and Nathan Jordan; special neighbors who became family, Jason and Leann Jordan; among other loved ones and dear friends.
Her funeral service will be conducted in the chapel of the Knox Funeral Home Saturday, August 15 at 12 Noon with Rev. James Smith officiating. She will be laid to rest in the Henry Mills Cemetery.
Casket bearers will be Mark Lester, D. J. Murphy, Zach Smith, Jordan Smith, Nick Jordan, Evan Smith, Colby Ledford and Jason Jordan.
The family would like to express their sincere appreciation to Pam, Professional Home Health of Laurel County and the nursing staff of St. Joseph London ICU for their excellent care.
Friends may visit at the funeral home Saturday after 11 A.M. until the funeral hour.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Knox Funeral Home.
Send a condolence to the family of BRENDA JOYCE LAWSON.
For questions about our obituaries or condolence service, please contact us. You may reach us via e-mail at knoxfuneralhome@barbourville.com. Reach us via phone by calling 606-546-2222.

