William "Tater" Michael Lawson

East Bend - William Michael Lawson, 73, known to many as Tater, left this world to join his wife on Friday, June 6, 2025. Tater was born to William Joel and Betty Jean Lawson on January 9, 1952 in Surry County. As a son of a farmer, Tater was no stranger to hard work throughout his life. An avid sportsman he enjoyed many sports, both indoor and outdoor. Not only did he play basketball, he excelled in high school football which influenced him to coach for the Tornadoes youth league. In later years depending on the season, you could either find him in a deer stand or holding a fishing rod. An enthusiastic fisherman, he frequented Joe’s carp pond, fishing charters, and loved entering the King Mackerel Tournament at Bogue Inlet Pier. A big fan of NASCAR, Tater stayed close to the race track whether it was supporting his son in law’s stock car career, attending as a spectator, or laid back in his favorite lazy chair by the TV.

For over 40 years, he dedicated his life to serving his community through his volunteer work with the Forbush Fire Department in roles such as assistant fire chief and as a first responder. After 35 years of working at RJR Tobacco Company, he retired and began his second career as an EMT for Yadkin County EMS. One could always depend on Tater to lend a helping hand no matter their need, and he made many friends throughout the years because of his service.

In August of 1971, he married the love of his life, Vivian Dinkins. They planted roots in the Forbush community and began their family in 1980 with the birth of their daughter Maranda Beth. One of his greatest sources of pride and joy was watching his daughter thrive whether on the field, in the classroom, or in all of her school activities. They enjoyed time as a family over the years vacationing at Emerald Isle. Their life became complete with the birth of their granddaughter Kayly in 2003.

Tater is proceeded in death by his wife of 53 years, Vivian. Surviving to cherish his memory is his daughter and son-in-law, Maranda and Chris Connor; granddaughter, Kayly Connor; sister, Lisa Lawson; brother and sister-in-law, Jerry and Louise Lawson; and many special nieces, nephews and friends.

He will lie in-state from 8:00 AM to 1:00 PM on Tuesday, June 10, 2025 at Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville. The family will receive friends from 1:00 to 2:00 PM on Tuesday at Gentry Family Funeral Service. His funeral Service will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday following the visitation at Gentry Family Chapel in Yadkinville by the Rev. Bruce Updyke. Memorials can be made to Forbush Fire Department, 4725 Old US 421 Hwy East, Yadkinville, NC 27055. Gentry Family Funeral Service in Yadkinville is serving the Lawson family. Online condolences can be made at www.gentryfuneralservice.com.