BENTON — Annette Lawson (Dougherty), a longtime educator and active member of the Benton community, died Jan. 2, 2026.
Lawson taught in the Benton School District for 46 years, serving as an elementary and music teacher. She was known for directing Christmas programs, Maypole events and elementary school musicals, traditions that became highlights for students and families throughout the district. Former students often credited her with encouraging kindness, confidence and curiosity in the classroom.
A lifelong member of First Baptist Church of Benton, Lawson joined the church at age 12. Following in the footsteps of her mother, Ellis Etta Dougherty, she served as church pianist for more than 50 years. Together, Lawson and her mother provided music for church services for more than 80 years. Lawson was also active in the Lucy Helm Mission Circle and served as its president. She supported the outreach ministry “Jesus Calling,” founded by her daughter, Linda.
Lawson was involved in the arts throughout Southern Illinois. She served as a pianist for Pyramid Players for many years and was a founding member of the Living Circle Singers, a Christian youth group that traveled throughout the region performing gospel music.
She enjoyed spending time outdoors, especially in her backyard, where she fed birds and watched wildlife. She was also a fan of St. Louis Cardinals baseball and enjoyed time with family, particularly her grandchildren.
She was preceded in death by her parents, Charles and Ellis Etta Dougherty; a brother, Charles “Chuck” Richard Dougherty; her husband, Jim Lawson; her spouse, Kenneth Shaw; a daughter, Linda Kay Lawson; and a granddaughter, Anne Marie.
Survivors include four children, Beverly (Kevin) Poole, Barbara (Tim) Davison, Chuck (the Rev. Susan) Lawson and Sheri (John) Barnett; 12 grandchildren; 10 great-grandchildren; and one great-great-grandchild.
Visitation will be held from 9 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 10, at First Baptist Church of Benton. A celebration of life service will follow at 11 a.m. at the church, with burial in Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery in Benton.
Funeral arrangements are entrusted to the Pate Funeral Home of Benton.
Memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church of Benton, 201 S. Main St., Benton, IL 62812. Online condolences may be left at patefh.com.