Obituary for Debby Lawson
Debby Lawson, born Deborah Gay Hockensmith, passed away peacefully at her home on March 4, 2023.
Debby was born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado. She moved to the eastern slope to attend college (both at CU and CSU) and pursue her life’s passion as a teacher. She thrived in this role, educating generations of students at Hutchinson Elementary, primarily in the first and second grades. Even after her retirement, she continued to tutor students at Whiz Kids, never fully withdrawing from her role in the lives of young scholars. A single glance at her impossibly perfect handwriting would assure any parent that their child was in the best of hands.
Debby was also a wonderful mother and friend. She touched countless lives with kindness, optimism, and a genuine concern for those around her. Whether it be with neighbors on the street, or strangers in the aisles of Safeway, she was always willing to stop to talk. In these enthusiastic conversations with one and all, she would readily discuss topics ranging from her beloved Denver Broncos, to treasures she recently discovered at a craft fair, to her book club’s latest must-read title. Perhaps she could be stubborn in her gentle way. But she was true. She will be dearly missed.
Debby is survived by her sons, Chris and Ryan, her granddaughter, Georgia, and her sister, Donna. Her family wants to thank all the friends and family who have sent prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. She loved you all.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to any of the following organizations in her honor:
• Jefferson County Public Schools, information available at https://www.jeffcopublicschools.org/community_portal/donate
• Whiz Kids, information available at https://www.whizkidstutoring.com/donate
• Colorado Westernaires, information available http://www.westernaires.org/donate
Debby was born and raised in Grand Junction, Colorado. She moved to the eastern slope to attend college (both at CU and CSU) and pursue her life’s passion as a teacher. She thrived in this role, educating generations of students at Hutchinson Elementary, primarily in the first and second grades. Even after her retirement, she continued to tutor students at Whiz Kids, never fully withdrawing from her role in the lives of young scholars. A single glance at her impossibly perfect handwriting would assure any parent that their child was in the best of hands.
Debby was also a wonderful mother and friend. She touched countless lives with kindness, optimism, and a genuine concern for those around her. Whether it be with neighbors on the street, or strangers in the aisles of Safeway, she was always willing to stop to talk. In these enthusiastic conversations with one and all, she would readily discuss topics ranging from her beloved Denver Broncos, to treasures she recently discovered at a craft fair, to her book club’s latest must-read title. Perhaps she could be stubborn in her gentle way. But she was true. She will be dearly missed.
Debby is survived by her sons, Chris and Ryan, her granddaughter, Georgia, and her sister, Donna. Her family wants to thank all the friends and family who have sent prayers and thoughts during this difficult time. She loved you all.
In lieu of flowers, a donation can be made to any of the following organizations in her honor:
• Jefferson County Public Schools, information available at https://www.jeffcopublicschools.org/community_portal/donate
• Whiz Kids, information available at https://www.whizkidstutoring.com/donate
• Colorado Westernaires, information available http://www.westernaires.org/donate