Dalton Perry Lawson

Dalton Perry Lawson, 17, of Dallas, NC, passed away on September 14, 2024, at Duke Hospital, with his loving parents and sister by his side. Born on June 18, 2007, Dalton was a bright and curious spirit who filled every room with warmth and energy. 

A baptized member of Philadelphia Lutheran Church in Dallas, NC, Dalton also regularly attended First Presbyterian Church in Stanley throughout his childhood. He was a senior at Gaston Virtual Academy, where he loved learning new things and engaging with the world around him. Dalton had a deep passion for anything with motors—cars, trains, planes—and always kept his phone handy, tracking flights on his Flight Tracker app. His fondness for watching Top Gear with his father and flying his drone around the family property was a testament to his adventurous and inquisitive nature. His bond with his dogs, Sampson and Nero, was equally special, with family members often catching Dalton and Sampson sharing a quiet moment together. 

Dalton is survived by his devoted parents, Brandon and Jolee Lewis Lawson; his beloved sister, Tenley Lawson; his maternal grandparents, Mike and Amy Lewis; his paternal grandparents, Gary Lawson, and Annette and Mike Johnson; his aunt, Laura Lewis; his uncle, Adam Lewis; his aunt and uncle, Wes and Julie Lawson; and cousins, Cooper Greene, Paige Lawson, and Tyler Lawson. He is also remembered fondly by a large extended family who adored him deeply.

Dalton is preceded in death by his great grandparents, JoAnn and George Lewis, Leona and Harry Hawley, Valiree and Bill Owens, Elizabeth and Bill Vess. 

Dalton’s love for adventure was unwavering, especially after his diagnosis of Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy in 2018. His family made it their mission to create beautiful memories with him, including annual trips to Dollywood and camping trips at Steele Creek Park. The Lawson family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the Duke PICU staff for their compassionate care during their most difficult moments. Special gratitude is also extended to Pastor Steve Jessen and his wife, Julie, for their support during this challenging time. 

A receiving of friends will be held on Saturday, September 21, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. at First Presbyterian Church, 512 Old Mt. Holly Road, Stanley followed by a funeral service at 1:00 p.m., officiated by Reverend Dan King, with assistance from Elder Joel Jessen. The graveside service will follow at Philadelphia Lutheran Church,1910 Philadelphia Church Road, Dallas, officiated by Reverend Shea Berbaum. 

Dalton's favorite color was red, and in his honor, we invite those attending the service to wear something red as a tribute to his vibrant and passionate spirit. 

Pallbearers will be Chris Glover, Robby Schafer, Wes Hepler, Gary Dowda, Jonas Friday, Daniel Hawley.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial donations be made to Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy. Contributions may be sent to PPMD, 1012 14th NW, Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20005. 

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family. 

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com