Joan Viars Lawson

Joan Viars Lawson, age 70, of Max Meadows, Va., passed away Monday, September 21, 2026. She was born December 21, 1955, in Wytheville, Va., to Charlotte Naomi Moore Viars and the late Charles Viars.

Joan spent her life centered around her deep love for children and community. She served as a dedicated substitute teacher for 16 years, embraced her role as a devoted "Band Mom," and truly lived for her family and students. A lifelong avid reader who loved talking to people, she never met a stranger. Joan had an adventurous spirit, having visited 45 states during her time driving trucks. She held a special place in her heart for Snoopy, Peanuts, and The Nightmare Before Christmas.

In addition to her father, she was preceded in death by her husband Danny S. Lawson, and her brother, Phillip Viars.

Joan is survived by her loving mother, Charlotte Naomi Moore Viars; her son, Adam Lawson and wife Molly; her daughter, Bailey Lawson; her brother, Eddie Viars and wife Patty; two nieces, Sheena Chaffin and husband Richard, and Kendra Janssen and husband JJ; and her great-nieces, McKenna and Kendall.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 P.M. to 3:00 P.M. Friday, September 25, 2026, at Barnett Funeral Home in Wytheville, Va. A graveside funeral service will follow at 4:30 P.M. on Friday, September 25, 2026, at the Draper Valley Pentecostal Holiness Church Cemetery in Draper, Va. with Donna Viar speaking.

Barnett Funeral Home in Wytheville is serving the Lawson family.