GEORGE THOMAS “TOM” LAWSON

MIDDLEBURY — George Thomas “Tom” Lawson, 87, of Middlebury, Vt., died peacefully on Aug. 20, 2024, with his family by his side.

Born in St. Johnsbury, Vt., on May 17, 1937, Tom was the only child of George Robert and Stella (Racicot) Lawson. He attended St. Johnsbury Academy, where he met the love of his life, Phyllis McKee. They graduated in 1955 and married in 1958. Tom graduated from Springfield College in 1961 and took his wife and baby daughter to begin his career at Craftsbury Academy in Craftsbury, Vt. From there, Tom was hired by Proctor High School in Proctor, Vt., where over the next six years he led the Phantoms’ soccer and basketball teams to numerous titles and championships.

In 1969, Tom moved to Middlebury, Vt., with Phyllis and four young children, to be the men’s soccer and basketball coach at Middlebury College. His teams were very successful under his guidance, highlighted by an undefeated men’s soccer season in 1972. Tom spent the final 20 years of his career as Athletic Director at Middlebury College. Tom’s career as Athletic Director at Middlebury College was nothing short of transformational. He ushered Middlebury Athletics into a modern era of gender equity, facility expansion, and exceptional results.

However, his most enduring contribution was establishing a culture of excellence and integrity on and off the field that is his lasting legacy. Tom retired in 1997, and he and Phyllis moved to Chatham, Mass., to enjoy the beach and sunshine before eventually returning to Middlebury to be closer to family and friends.

As dedicated as Tom was to his career, he was even more devoted to his family. He was a stellar example to his family, supportive and always wanting the best for them in life. Tom used to say that his children turned out well “in spite of him,” but it was truly because of him. Tom is survived by his loving children: daughters Karen Ryden (Thomas) of Pepperell, Mass., and Pamela Quinn (Erin) of Middlebury, Vt., and son Michael Lawson of Rutland, Vt. He is also survived by the grandchildren he adored: Erik, Anders, and Elisabeth Ryden; Samantha, Matthew, and Jason Re; and Hannah and Connor Quinn. He was predeceased by his beloved wife of 64 years, Phyllis Lawson, and cherished daughter, Dawn Re (John).

A celebration of Tom’s life will be held at 1 p.m. on Sept. 13, at the Congregational Church in Middlebury, Vt. Donations in Tom’s memory may be made to Addison County Home Health and Hospice.

Arrangements under the direction of Sanderson-Ducharme Funeral Home.

Online condolences at: www.sandersonfuneralservice.com. ◊