Lawson Willingham West Burns, affectionally known as "Baby Sister" of Camilla, Georgia was the beloved daughter of the late Howard and Ella Mae Willingham. She was born on January 22, 1943, and peacefully transitioned to her heavenly home on Sunday, July 20, 2025, at the age of 82.

Lawson was educated in the public schools of Mitchell County. She was a devoted
member of Oak Grove Missionary Baptist Church until December 2019 when she moved to Smyrna, Georgia to live with her son.

In addition to her parents and grandparents, Lawson was preceded in death by her former husband, George Lee West.

Lawson's life and memory is lovingly cherished by her daughter, Dr. Shauna S. Mayo (John) of South Chesterfield, Virginia; her son, Mr. Charles P. West of Smyrna, Georgia; two granddaughters, Kamishia Monique Jackson of Petersburg, Virginia, and Ebonie Vera Simpson of New York City. Lawson's memory is also cherished by her brother, Clarence Willingham (Rhonda) of Nashville, Tennessee; former second husband, Walter Burns, and a host of cousins, nephews, relatives and friends.