Debra E. Lawson

Lawson, Debra E., age 70, of Dayton, Ohio, passed away on October 19, 2025. She was born on May 17, 1955, to William and Lois Lawson.

Throughout her life, Debra treasured every moment spent with family and friends. St. Pete Beach, Florida, held a special place in her heart, where she and her beloved Paul wove countless memories and lasting friendships. Among her most cherished adventures was driving the scenic highway from Miami to Key West in a Mustang convertible with Paul—a journey that never failed to bring a smile to her face. She delighted in retelling the hilarious story of the time they were locked out of their room at the Bon Aire after hours and had to spend the night on the beach; even now, it brings a smile to remember the laughter that filled the air as she told it. Debra often spoke with warmth and love of her “Aunt Fran” in Lakeland, Florida, with whom she shared a very close and special bond. 

Debra had a bright and social spirit. She loved people, laughter, and travel, and she brought warmth and joy to everyone who knew her. She was preceded in death by her parents, William and Lois Lawson; her beloved husband, Paul G. Schaefer; her son Paul G. Schaefer Jr; and her cherished aunts and uncle, Frances Hooker, Gertie Gibson, Grace Klein, Annabelle Pigg and Harold Smailes. 

Debra is survived by her brother, Mike Smith; her cousins, Wayne Emerson, Mark Klien, Brad Pigg, Ruthanne Pigg, Robyn Weeks, and Beth Gibson; and her children, Trish (Steve) Falcone, David (Kimberly) Schaefer, and Lisa (Aaron) Davis. She is also survived by her grandchildren, Tim Barker, Lyndsey (Jake) Knipper, Courtney Schaefer, Chris Schaefer, Nick Schaefer, Justin Schaefer, Jayden Schulke, Joshua (Ashley) Schulke, Lacey Schulke, Sydney Davis, Kensey Davis, Paul G. Schaefer III, Gabe Schaefer, and Rowan Schaefer; seven great-grandchildren; and her sisters-in-law, Hildegard Daulton, Sylvia Ellert, and the late Susan Wilson. 

A visitation will be held from 1:00pm to 3:00pm on Saturday, November 15 at Routsong Funeral Home, 2100 E. Stroop Rd., Kettering, Ohio 45429. A memorial service will follow at 3:00pm. For those unable to attend, Debra’s services will be live-streamed on Routsong Funeral Home’s YouTube channel. 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the American Cancer Society, Wounded Warrior Project, or St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.