Lawson lived life entirely on his own terms loudly, unapologetically, and with stories that could fill a lifetime. A well-known cab driver and part of the fabric of lower Broadway, he became a staple of the Newport community and a legend in his own right. He was a complicated, charismatic man whose presence left a lasting mark on those around him.
Lawson regularly offered help to those around town while quietly carrying his own struggles to himself. He often described himself as “a walking contradiction,” and anyone who knew him would probably agree. He could be hot-headed yet deeply loving, stubborn yet generous, larger than life yet quietly thoughtful.
A lover of whiskey, cigars, women, and good conversation, Lawson believed the party never truly stopped. In the mornings he could usually be found with the daily newspaper in hand, working through a crossword puzzle, keeping up with current events, or passionately following New England sports teams. An avid reader and history buff, he valued knowledge just as much as he valued a good story.
Since the opening, Pour Judgement quickly became one of Lawson’s favorite places, the Newport version of Cheers, where everyone knew his name.
Lawson also had his own unique views on life, including a firm belief that drinking water would somehow poison the body, something friends and family never stopped laughing about.
Above all else, Lawson loved his daughters fiercely and carried immense pride for his family, even if he did not always show it in conventional ways.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Lawson Thornton Christopher Sr. and Margaret Elizabeth Christopher; his sister, Sharon Parker; and his brother, Jimmy Woodson.
He is survived by his daughters, Lindsey Parazino, Sarah Smith, and Kaitlin Christopher; his sisters, Kay Anthony and Mattie Ray; numerous grandchildren; and many nieces, nephews, and lifelong friends who will continue sharing the stories, laughter, and unforgettable memories he leaves behind.
Newport will not be quite the same without him.
