JEFFREY DALE "J.D." LAWSON

Jeffrey Dale “JD” Lawson, 54, of War, WV, was called home on February 17, 2025, while doing what he loved, responding to someone in need. Jeffrey was born on October 30, 1970 in Welch, WV. Jeffrey was the son of the late Harvey and Marie Lawson. Jeffrey, know to his West Virginia family as “Jeff” and to his Maryland family as “J.D” lived his life serving others. Jeffrey joined the War Volunteer Fire Department in June 1985, where he worked his way through the ranks currently serving as the Deputy Fire Chief. In March 1989, Jeffrey decided to serve his community as a police officer with the City of War, WV. Jeffrey transferred to the Bluefield Police Department in July of 1990 where he served until August 1997. Jeffrey made his way to Maryland in 1997 joining the Berlin Police Department in Berlin, MD. During his time with Berlin, “JD” as he was known by his colleagues, served in many capacities. One of “JD’s” prideful accomplishments was serving as the Department’s SWAT Commander. JD was a wealth of knowledge especially when it came to Firearms. JD also served as the departments Firearms Instructor. JD retired from the Berlin Police Department on September 30, 2023. At the time of his retirement, JD was serving as the Departments Patrol Commander, holding the rank of Lieutenant. JD’s service to others in Maryland also included the Ocean City Fire Department, where he served as Captain. JD joined the OCFD in October 1997, and was a life member at the time of his passing. JD also had a love for operating heavy equipment. JD had been operating heavy equipment since the age of 8 years old. After retirement from the Belin Police Dept. JD returned home to War, WV, with his loving wife, Bernadette and stepdaughter, Haleigh. JD returned to his love of operating heavy equipment with Delrick. JD is survived by his loving wife, Bernadette, step-children, Haleigh Given and Randy Given. JD is also survived by a biological daughter, Haleigh Schreckengost. JD was preceded in death by his parents and grandparents. JD loved his animals, especially Cecil his beloved cat. Jeffrey’s legacy will live on through the many lives that he touched. Jeffrey was a mentor to many generations of firefighters and police officers as he provided countless hours of instruction. Those that knew JD, knew him as a friend, brother, mentor and a dedicated firefighter and police officer who embodied the true spirit of being of service to others. JD’s influence will be felt for years to come. A Fireman’s Funeral with full honors will be held Saturday, March 1, 2025 at 11:00 AM from the Southside K-8 School in War, WV with the Pastor Robert Weed, officiating. Burial will follow in the Grandview Memory Gardens Cemetery in Bluefield, Virginia. Friends may call at the school Saturday, March 1, 2025 from 10:00 AM to 11:00 AM. In lieu of flower memorial contributions may be made to the War Volunteer Fire Department, 7 River Road, War, WV 24892 The Douglas Mortuary in Welch is serving the family. Online condolences may be sent to the family at www.douglasmortuary.com

JEFFREY DALE "J.D." LAWSON

October 30, 1970 - February 17, 2025