Obituary of Paul W. Lawhorn, Sr.

Paul W. (Johnny) Lawhorn, Sr., 81 years, of Lindenwold NJ, born in Augusta County VA on December 5, 1939 and passed away on January 2, 2021 from the COVID-19 Virus. Son of the late Charles and Edna (née Doyle) Lawhorn. Beloved partner and heart of Dorothy A. Matchett. Loving father of Kathleen Lawhorn Rota (Daniel), Margaret Lawhorn Carr and Paul Lawhorn, Jr. Dear brother of Louise Lawhorn Paxton (the late Carl), Joyce Ann Lawhorn Patterson (the late Wayne), the late Wilma Lee Lawhorn Massie and the late Donald Lawhorn. Paul is survived by 6 grandchildren, 5 great grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews

Paul (Johnny, Sonny, or Pappy) was an integral part of his family. As well as those mentioned above, he leaves behind 2 “sisters” and a “brother” (Matchett), as well as a much-loved circle of friends who became family. No matter which group one might belong to, his endless love, passion, loyalty, and respect were all part of the relationships he built. He also had much love for his “girls”.

His formative years were spent with his 4 siblings and parents in Virginia and then in Pennsylvania.  He left high school to join the Navy and travel the world. His initial recruit turned into a 20+ year career and service record, including serving in the Vietnam War. After the Navy, he continued his Government service at the Philadelphia shipyard until it closed, at which point he worked for Philadelphia Sign Co. from where he finally retired.  Paul made special friends everywhere he worked and lived and is thought highly of by many. He was a proud man who had a strong work ethic. He loved his country and was very patriotic. His close circle of “family”, would tell you that he was unconditionally supportive, that he was as honest as the day is long, that while he definitely had opinions, he always listened to yours, he had a huge heart and was good to everyone that he loved, he was always willing to make memories that counted, he entertained and educated people with the stories of his life which led to much laughter and fun, he was called Pappy because the people he bonded with looked to him as a mentor and he checked in on or followed all the people he loved. He was a proud man who had the biggest heart! He will be missed greatly, by so many.

Due to the current circumstances and regulations, services and interment will take place privately. Arrangements under the direction of the DANKS-HINSKI FUNERAL HOME, LINDENWOLD NJ.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in Paul’s name to the American Legion Post #370, 370 Warwick Road, Magnolia, NJ 08049, would be appreciated. To leave lasting thoughts and condolences or photos, please use the links on this page.