Sameul "Sam" M. Lawson, of Rockford departed this earthly life December 29, 2025. He was born November 12, 1938 in Ecorse, Michigan the son of Robert Sr. and Mary Lawson. Samuel lived in Rockford 17 years coming from Chicago, IL. He was employed as a supervisor by Sears in Chicago, IL many years before retiring. He was a former Michigan State Trooper serving the first black Trooper. Samuel was a veteran of the U.S. Army. He was a member of the Jefferson Horton American Legion Post 340, Rock City Unique Steppers, Step in to Shap line dancers and Black Angels Motorcycle Club. Samuel graduated from Ecorse High School class of 1957 and later attended Community College.

Samuel leaves to cherish many loving, his companion of 33 years, Tina Harvey; son, Byron (Michelle) Lawson; daughter, Kimberly McKnight; three grandchildren Stephen, Mia and Layla; three great grandchildren; a host of nieces, nephews, cousins other relatives and special friends including tina's children who he loved as his own, Sherise Tims, Kevin Burks and Lamar (Roberta) Burks. He was predeceased by parents; six brothers, James, Noah, Leroy, Elliotte, John and Robert Jr., Lawson; and seven sisters, Essie Mercer, Bertha Christopher, Eunice Gill, Brunetta Todd, Gloria Jean Chappelle, Vivian Wilson and Shirley Lawson.

Memorial services will be held at a later date.