Judith “Judy” Vandivier Lawson

AUBURN – Judith “Judy” Vandivier Lawson, 87, passed away peacefully on Saturday, Jan. 1, 2022, after a long fight with dementia.

Judy was born Nov. 17, 1934, in Morgantown, Indiana, the daughter of Aaron and Helen (Dickson) Vandivier. Judy graduated from Union Township High School in 1952. She worked as a nurse at Marion County General Hospital until her marriage in 1956 to Dr. Lawrence Lawson.

Judy and family moved to Muncie, Ind., in 1964, which marked the start of lifelong engagements in community and arts-related activities. Judy was a member of the Delaware County Medical Society, the Paul Revere Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution, founding member and president of the Ball State University Museum of Art Alliance, president of the Alpha Psi Iota Xi Bargain Box, president of the Art Students League, president of the Late Bloomers Garden Club, and honorary member of the Muncie Rotary. Judy was a board member of the Gateway Health Clinic, Muncie Mental Health Board, and Meals on Wheels. In recognition of her community service, Judy was awarded the Lifetime of Service Volunteer Award from the United Way in Muncie.

Judy is survived by her sons, Timothy Aaron Lawson and Peter Vandivier Lawson; daughter, Sarah Anne Helen Lawson (Randy) Link; and grandchildren, Dr. Robert Andrew Link and Eric Michael Link. She is also survived by a number of extended family members and friends who will miss her strong character, sharp wit, and many acts of kindness.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Dr. Lawrence Joseph Lawson; son, Andrew James Lawson; and parents, Aaron and Helen Vandivier.

The family would like to extend a special note of gratitude to Dr. Charles Routh in Muncie for several years of compassionate care for Judy. We would also like to thank Westminster Village Retirement Community in Muncie, Androscoggin Home Healthcare & Hospice in Lewiston, and Schooner Estates in Auburn.

The family is planning a private memorial service at a future date in Muncie.

Donations in Judy’s memory may be made via mail or online to Androscoggin Home Healthcare & Hospice, ATTN: Development Office; 15 Strawberry Avenue; Lewiston, Maine 04240. Alternatively, donations may be made to Ball State University, ATTN: Counseling Center Services; Lucina Hall, Rm 320; Muncie, IN 47306.