Rhoda Ellen Harris, daughter of Joseph and Elizabeth Harris was born in Phelps county, Missouri, May 14, 1872 and passed away September 30, 1959 at the home of her daughter, Mrs. Grace Sliger, in Licking, Mo., making her age at the time of her passing, 87 years, 4 months and 16 days.

She was united in marriage to William L. Lawson in 1894, who preceded her in death in 1946. To this union 4 children were born, Robert and Elmer Lawson, and Clara Eakers of St. Louis, Missouri, and Grace Sliger of Licking, Missouri with who she been making her home since the passing of her husband.

Besides her immediate family she is survived by 5 grandchildren, of which she practically raised. They are Clarence West, Junior West, Beatrice Slaughter all of St. Louis, Missouri, and Virginia Lingua of St. Ann, Missouri; and Elmer West, address unknown. Also surviving her are 9 great grandchildren, plus a number of nieces and nephews. Two sisters and one brother preceded her in death.

Mother Lawson or Grandma Lawson, as most of all friends called her, was converted at an early age and in 1947 dedicated her life more fully to Christian service. She was a faithful church member having attended the Rambo, Peace Chapel and the Pentecostal Holiness Church at Licking, Mo. Not only was she highly esteemed by her family, but was dearly loved and will be missed by all.

From the Licking News, Licking, MO, Thursday, 8 Oct 1959
Posted by: Steve Petes