John Franklin Lawson Daniel's Obituary
John Franklin Lawson Daniel was born January 30, 1942 in Goose Creek, Texas and went to his eternal reward on May 30,2025. He grew up in Houston, Texas and graduated from Aldine High School. He played football in High School, escaping unscathed except for a broken nose. He married Betty Jones of Houston, Texas in July 1962.
Lawson was a diligent worker and excelled in a variety of employments. After graduating from High School, he worked at Weiner’s department store. He developed an interest in law enforcement and became a reserve officer under the supervision of Sheriff Buster Kern in Houston, Texas. He also served as a reserve officer in the Constable Department under the direction of C. R. Davis, precinct 4.
Later on, Lawson served as supervisor for the 911 System in Houston. While working there, he envisioned another system, 311, to complement 911 and his idea was eventually implemented. He received a certificate from Governor Mark White acknowledging this achievement in 2003.
After serving with distinction in 911, he was invited to work as a liaison speaker for Councilman Adrian Garcia. While in that position, which was connected with the Mayor’s office, Lawson wrote a felony bill that he gave to a friend whom he knew, State Representative Debra Danburg. She passed it on to Governor Mark White who got the bill passed by both chambers. He then invited Lawson and Betty to Austin when he signed the bill into law.
After his retirement from the city, Lawson became restless and went back to work with a security company and served as a security guard for several years. He worked until he was 80 yeas old until the beginning stages of dementia caused his permanent retirement.
Lawson was invoked in many other activities besides work. He started the Walking Trail project at Halls Bayou. He attended the Westheimer Art Festival annually and eventually served as President for one year.
Lawson benefitted from his relationships with various politicians. Congressman Mickey Leland gave the family special passes to tour the White House, which they did. They were saddened when Congressman Leland later lost his life in a plane crash.
Lawson often went to the Astronauts 5K run. His son, Michael, got to run in the race because of Lawson’s interest and influence. He was a proud Dad when Michael came in the top 400 of 800 runners. Lawson received a letter from Governor White thanking him for his participation and attendance at the 5K run.
The most important part of his outside activities centered around church. He and Betty got to know each other in church. Though he attended other churches, his last affiliation was with Bethel Church in Houston, Texas, his home church for 20 years. He loved to sing and often led the singing at Bethel. He sang in a trio with his oldest sons, Gary and Bubba. He also sang with the Good News Quartet.
Lawson was preceded in death by his parents, John and Ruth Daniel; his brothers, Henry Alexander, Arnilious Alexander, Arlie Alexander, Clarence Alexander, Howard Alexander; and his sister, Ruth Alexander Raibourn. He is survived by his wife, Betty Daniel; his sons, Gary Daniel, Greggory (Bubba) Daniel, Michael Daniel; and a host of nephews and nieces and extended family members.
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