David Lawton Obituary

David Pierce Lawton, age 78, of Lincoln, Nebraska, stepped into the presence of his Lord and Savior on October 7, 2026.

Born on February 18, 1948, in Santa Barbara, California, David lived a life of servant leadership as he followed Jesus Christ. Born to John and Mary Lawton, David looked up to his big sister Ruth and in turn was looked up to by his younger brothers John, Steve, Tom, Tim, and Mike. David is fondly remembered for his kindness, warmth, and generosity by many who knew him at Wheaton Academy, Covenant College, the University of Nebraska, churches and hospitals in Florida, Georgia, California, Oregon, and Nebraska, and by his nursing colleagues, nursing students, and patients along the way.

David absolutely cherished his college sweetheart Claudia Jones Lawton and was pleased to provide for her, honor her, and love her for every moment he had on this earth. David and Claudia raised their three children to be critical thinkers, lifelong learners, and compassionate, service-oriented human beings. He is survived by his wife of 54 years, Claudia, son Adam, daughter Rebecca (Jeremy), son Andrew (Jenny), and beloved grandchildren Livia, Harley, Noah, Pierce, and George. He leaves behind all of his siblings and their much-loved spouses, nieces and nephews who all wish they could hug him one last time.

A family-only private graveside service will be held soon. Memorial gifts may be given to Samaritan's Purse International Relief.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Lincoln Journal Star on Oct. 11, 2026.

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5 Entries

JOHN P LAWTON JR

October 14, 2026

I will miss you brother, every day. Love you and your beautiful family. Love the times and places we spent together. Love the good trouble we got into as kids. Your guidance kept me on solid ground when I stepped away from the path. Your physical presence was daunting when you were in your spot under the basket, or singing around the piano.

Kathy VonSeggern

October 12, 2026

David and I worked together for the State of Nebraska. I was his Administrstive Assistant. David was not only my coworker, he was my friend. David loved the Lord Jesus Christ, and he reflected that in his relationship with others. He loved people and he loved life. He loved his wife Claudia and his family. He often spoke of them. I am thankful to have known him and been able to call him my friend. My prayers for his family and deepest condolences. He will be greatly missed. The world was a better place because of him.

Joan Texel

October 12, 2026

David and Claudia
You were the first people Tim and I met the first time we attended Zion church, you turned around and your welcoming smiles and conversation meant so much to us that we decided to keep coming. David the world is going to miss the kindness you showered on others . Prayers and hugs to Claudia and family

Linda Becher Hansen

October 12, 2026

Claudia, I was so sorry to hear of your loss. I remember you and David both as radiant faces and most encouraging friends when when I worshipped at Zion.