Joan Bishop Lawson

Joan Bishop Lawson, beloved wife, mother, sister, grandmother and friend, passed away on December 13, 2025 at the age of 88. She was born in Union County, SC to the late Roy C. and Madge Hamrick Bishop.

She was raised in Buffalo, SC, with her four older brothers: the late Bob, Rodger, Jack, and Jerry Bishop. Joan graduated from Union High School, later working at the Union County Courthouse and Spartanburg County Probate Office. She was an active and lifelong member of Buffalo Baptist Church, where she taught Sunday School for many years, sang in the choir, and made some of her dearest friends. Joan was a skilled Bridge player and enjoyed taking her daily walk no matter where she was. She was a wonderful cook and was happiest with her family around the table for Sunday lunch.

Joan was known for her steadfast faith in the Lord and her love for others. She was the heart of her family and found joy in caring for those around her. She treated everyone she met with grace and kindness, and will be missed for her joy, warmth and humble heart.

Joan was preceded in death by her devoted husband, Donald Russell Lawson, Sr., and her youngest son, Eric Lawson.

She is survived by her sons, Russell Lawson (Kathy) and Barry Lawson (Kristen); four granddaughters, Calli Santifort (Taylor), Mallori Farkas (Jake), Maya Lawson, and Maria Lawson (and their mother, Sophia Lawson); four great-grandchildren, Jack, Annie, and Kit Santifort and Laynie Farkas; and her dear niece, Patti Kelly, who held a special place in her heart.

A funeral service will be held at 3:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 18, 2025 at the Holcombe Funeral Home Chapel in Union, SC, followed by a burial at Union Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends prior to the service from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. at the chapel.

Funeral services will be conducted by Dr. Robert Jarvis. Pallbearers will be Jake Farkas, Ted Kelly, Johnny Kinsey, Denny Layne, Taylor Santifort, and David Taylor.

The family wishes to express their gratitude to the staff at Eden Terrace, White Oak Nursing Home, and Family First Hospice.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Buffalo Baptist Church, 1424 Main St., Buffalo, SC 29321.