Ina Lawson

In Loving Memory of

Ina Mae Lawson

December 24, 1925 – October 24, 2025

Ina Mae Lawson was born on December 24, 1925, in Bluefields, Nicaragua, Central America. She was the third of seven children born to the late Hanna Adora and Thomas Nathaniel Smith. In 1933, Ina, along with her mother and siblings, journeyed to Jamaica, West Indies, where she attended Kendall Primary School and worshipped faithfully at Kendall Baptist Church.

In 1956, Ina met and married the love of her life, Henry Lawson. Together, they built a home filled with love, laughter, and faith in Grange Hill, Jamaica, before she later immigrated to Brooklyn, New York, to join her beloved sister Enid Brown, who had paved the way for the rest of the family to follow.

Ina worked for 34 years as a Dietary Aide at Maimonides Medical Center, preparing meals for thousands of patients and hospital staff with skill, care, and dedication. Rain, storm, or shine—she showed up faithfully, never missing a single day of work throughout her entire career. Her exceptional service earned her the hospital’s coveted Gold Pin Award for over 20 years of excellence, a testament to her integrity, reliability, and pride in her work.

Outside of work, Ina was a gifted baker and cook whose kitchen was always open. She delighted family, friends, and neighbors with her famous spicy spaghetti, rum cake, bun and cheese, and wedding cakes made with love and precision. She ensured everyone who crossed her path felt seen, cared for, and nourished—both in body and in spirit. 

Known for her grace, style, and gentle humor, Ina took pride in her appearance and in how she carried herself. Whether in church on Sunday or hosting family at home, she was always impeccably dressed—a quiet example of dignity and self-respect.

She was a caretaker by nature, a steady and comforting presence to generations of nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends. Her lullabies comforted babies, her meals brought families together, and her prayers anchored the household in faith.

One by one, time claimed all her siblings before her. Though she was the third to be born, she was the last matriarch of her generation, blessed to live 99 remarkable years—nearly reaching her centennial birthday. Her longevity, strength, and unwavering faith are a reflection of a life well-lived and deeply loved.

Ina leaves to cherish her memory a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends who were blessed to know her. Her legacy of love, generosity, and quiet strength will continue to live on in the hearts of all who were touched by her life.

Acknowledgment

The family of the late Ina Mae Lawson extends heartfelt thanks and appreciation for your prayers, calls, visits, and words of comfort during this time of loss. Your love and support have been a source of great strength and peace.

A special thank you to the pastors, church family, caregivers, and friends who have walked alongside us through the years. Your kindness and generosity will always be remembered.

May God bless you abundantly for the compassion and love you have shown.

“Her life was a blessing, her memory a treasure, she is loved beyond words and missed beyond measure.”