Brett Adams Lawson

Brett Adams Lawson, 61, of Richmond, VA, passed away peacefully on Monday, October 19, 2026, at VCU Medical Center, surrounded by family as they sang Amazing Grace. He was born on November 24, 1964, in Pittsburgh, PA, to the late Welbert Eugene Lawson and Margaret Adams Lawson.

Brett was a 1983 graduate of Powhatan High School, later studying automotive technology at J. Sargeant Reynolds Community College.

He proudly served his country in the United States Navy, dedicating more than 21 years of his life to military service. Brett enlisted on September 7, 1983, and began a distinguished career that reflected his dedication, commitment, and deep sense of patriotism. During his years of service, he served aboard the USS Kidd (DDG-993) as a Seaman in the 1st Division before continuing his career as a Boatswain's Mate Second Class with NRCHB 10 Detachment Bravo in Williamsburg, Virginia. He later served as a crane operator with NRCHB 10 until his retirement from the Navy in June 2005. Brett took tremendous pride in his military career, and his years of service remained an important and cherished part of his life.

Brett was also a former member of May Memorial Baptist Church. Beyond his military accomplishments, he was known for his quick wit and wonderfully dry, quirky sense of humor. He had a unique way of looking at life and could often catch others off guard with a perfectly timed remark or unexpected observation. His humor, individuality, and the pride he carried for his country were all part of what made Brett so memorable to those who knew him. He will be fondly remembered for his service, his distinctive personality, and the many memories he leaves behind.

He is survived by one aunt, Clara Emerson; his siblings, Jo Ann G. Woodson (Jimmy), Carol G. Moyers (Mike), Mary Gayle Guidon, and John Guidon (Karen); and many loving cousins who all were together with Brett recently at a family reunion in Powhatan at the Lawson family home, Rosemont (now known as the Drexel-Morrell Center).

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his grandparents, Oliver Cecil Lawson and Etta Jessup Lawson, and William J. “Bill” Adams and Eva Adams; his uncles, Joseph Lawson, Sr., Elwood Lawson, and Stuart Lawson; one aunt, Jean Manley; and his bonus mom, Mary Ann Hubbard.

A service to celebrate and remember Brett’s life will be held with military honors on Friday, October 30, 2026, at 12 PM at Culpeper National Cemetery, 501 E. Chandler St. Culpeper, VA 22701.

An online guestbook is available at www.compassionatecremationva.com

Compassionate Cremation Services of Ruckersville, VA is honored to serve Brett’s family.