Edward Hayes Lawhon

October 23, 1941 – March 28, 2026

Edward Hayes Lawhon, aged 84, passed away peacefully on March 28, 2026, in Little Rock, Arkansas. A man of quiet strength and remarkable grit, Ed—a retired Lieutenant Colonel—lived a life that balanced the gravity of global service with the simple, sun-drenched joys of a Florida afternoon.

A Journey of Purpose

Ed’s path of service began at Ouachita Baptist University, where he graduated in 1963. It was there, through the ROTC program, that he built the foundation for a distinguished career in the United States Army.

Ed dedicated over forty years to the protection of others, moving through history with a steady hand. From leading patrols in Vietnam and conducting vital research for the NSA, to serving as a military advisor in Nicaragua during its most turbulent days, he stood where he was needed most. Later, as a Special Agent for the Department of Defense and a parole officer in Florida, Ed found deep fulfillment in the delicate balance of justice and second chances.

The Simple Joy of Growing Old

After a lifetime spent in high-stakes environments, Ed embraced the gift of retirement in the Village of Glenbrook. An avid runner for much of his life, Ed was known for his discipline on the pavement, often finding peace and clarity during his favorite six-mile routes. In later years, he found his greatest "excitement" on the softball fields of the Saddlebrook complex, often remarking that the game was "a great way to grow old." For a man who had seen the world at its most volatile, the peace of the ball field—and the rhythm of a long run—were privileges he never took for granted.

A Family’s Pride

Ed’s legacy of bravery and wit lives on through the family he loved so dearly. He was preceded in death by his parents, Thomas and Marguerite Lawhon and grandson Frank “Tate” Besier. He is survived by:

• His devoted wife, Virginia Lawhon (Little Rock, AR; formerly The Villages, FL)

• His sister, Janis (Roger) Harrison-Chinn (Little Rock, AR)

• His son, Landon (Jennifer) Lawhon (Cabot, AR) and granddaughter Kelsie Lawhon.

• His daughter, Laurie Jone (Harrison, AR) and grandchildren Jace Jones and Jenner Jones.

• His son, Lance (Stacie) Lawhon (Sheridan, AR) and grandchildren Lance Earl Lawhon and Alex Lawhon.

• His Son, Frank (Terrie) Besier and granddaughter Rebecca Besier.

• His Son, Scott (Wendy) Besier and grandson Hayden Besier and granddaughter Kendall Besier.

• A cherished circle of great-grandchildren.

Ed leaves behind a storied history of service to his country and a family who will forever remember his sharp mind and his kind heart. He has finally found the lasting peace he earned a thousand times over, far from the foxholes of the past and home at last.

A graveside service will be held Monday, April 20th, at 1:00 at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery.