IRA M. LAWSON

Ira Maurice Lawson was born on February 5, 1967, in the heart of Brooklyn, New York, to Robert Lee Gilmore and Sylvia Elaine Lawson. From a young age, Ira’s gentle spirit and compassionate heart shone brightly. He began his educational journey at P.S. 41, continued through J.H.S. 275, and proudly graduated from Martin Luther King High School. Even in his early years, Ira’s heart was tender toward those in need, a calling that would grow into a lifelong ministry dedicated to serving the forgotten and uplifting the brokenhearted.

In 1993, destiny and divine timing brought Ira to Helping Hands Ministry, where he encountered Nancy — the woman who would become the love of his life. Their souls connected instantly, drawn together by a shared faith, a common purpose, and a love that felt heaven-sent. Just eight months after they met, they joined their hearts in sacred union, surrounded by grace and guided by God’s perfect plan. Their marriage became a radiant reflection of Christ’s love — full of laughter, strength, and unshakable devotion. From their love came their greatest earthly blessings: their cherished children — Joshua Marrero, Luis Marrero, and Naomi Lawson — each carrying the legacy of their father’s kindness, wisdom, and unwavering faith.

At the core of Ira’s life was a burning passion to share the hope, truth, and redemptive power of God’s Word. He lived to spread the Gospel, whether preaching boldly on bustling city streets and subway trains or leading intimate, spirit-filled Bible studies. Ira believed deeply in the transformative power of the Gospel, and he dedicated his life to reaching both the saved and the lost with love, humility, and compassion. He was the visionary behind Breaking the Chains School of Ministry, a powerful outreach equipping others to boldly walk in their God-given calling. Yet among all his endeavors, it was outreach to the homeless that held a sacred space in his heart. Ira didn’t just offer meals or clothing — he offered dignity, prayer, and the reminder that no one is ever forgotten by God.

On Sunday, April 13, 2025, Ira peacefully transitioned from this life into the loving arms of his Savior. A faithful servant to the very end, Ira’s life was a living testimony of grace, purpose, and the boundless love of God. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Nancy Lawson; his treasured children, Joshua Marrero, Luis Marrero, and Naomi Lawson; and his devoted parents, Robert Lee Gilmore and Sylvia Elaine Lawson. He is also lovingly remembered by his brother, Robert Gilmore Jr.; his four sisters, Robin Lawson, Nicole Lachant Bell, Laychelle Gilmore, and Karizma Jefferson; uncles, Lee Lawson and Stanley Gilmore; aunts, Deborah Davis, Gwendolyn Parker, and Sharon Kemp; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, and lifelong friends whose lives were forever touched by his presence.

Though Ira’s earthly journey has ended, his spirit remains — in every soul he inspired, every heart he touched, and every life transformed by his unwavering faith. He now rests in eternal peace, reunited with those who have gone before him: his grandparents, Calvin Lawson Sr., Sarah Lawson, and Jennie Gilmore; his sister, Deidra Bell-Powell; his uncles, Calvin Jr. and Reginald Lawson; and his aunts, Emma Reff, Georgia James, and Genette Gilmore.

Ira’s legacy is not just one of ministry, but of love — deep, abiding, and eternal. He will be missed beyond words, but his light will forever shine in the hearts of those who were blessed to know him. 

Philippians 4: 10-13, I rejoiced greatly in the Lord that at last you renewed your concern for me. Indeed, you were concerned, but you had no opportunity to show it. I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.  I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.  I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

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