BENTON, IL – Annette Lawson (Dougherty), a devoted educator and a pillar of the Benton community, passed away peacefully on January 2, 2026. Known for her beautiful smile, warm heart, and her unwavering dedication to others, Annette leaves behind a legacy of faith, music, and learning that spans generations.
A Lifetime of Teaching
Annette was a familiar and beloved face within the Benton School District. For 46 years, she served as an elementary school and music teacher, guiding young minds through their most formative years. She didn’t just teach academic subjects; she shared the gift of music and taught children how to be kind, curious, and confident.
One of the highlights of her career was her talent for creating and directing memorable events for her students. She was especially known for her Christmas and Maypole programs and elementary school Musicals, all cherished traditions that brought the community together and gave every child a chance to celebrate. Former students often remember her as the teacher who truly listened and who made every child feel like they had a place in her classroom.
A Generational Legacy of Music and Ministry
Annette’s life was deeply defined by her faith and her musical gift. A lifelong member of the First Baptist Church in Benton, she joined the church at the age of 12. Following in the footsteps of her mother, Ellis Etta Dougherty, she served as the church pianist for over 50 years. She was well known for bringing her own unique, jazzy flair to traditional hymns—a signature style that brought a special energy and joy to the worship service. Remarkably, Annette and her mother served as church pianists for over 80 years. This extraordinary contribution offered comfort, joy, and a sense of continuity to their entire congregation for nearly a century.
Annette’s leadership and service extended into many facets of church life. She was a key member of the Lucy Helm Mission Circle and served as the organization’s President for a time, dedicated to supporting local and international missions and community needs. With great enthusiasm she supported and continued her daughter Linda’s outreach ministry, “Jesus Calling”, sharing the joy of Christ with others.
Annette’s musical influence reached far into the arts community. She served Pyramid Players for many years as a pianist and took an active role in many other facets of the organization, helping to bring countless musicals to life and entertaining the region for decades. Additionally, she was a key founding member of the Christian youth group, The Living Circle Singers. The group traveled throughout Southern Illinois, bringing the message of the Gospel and the joy of music to thousands.
Love of Life
Annette found deep joy in the simple pleasures of life. Annette’s backyard was her sanctuary, a place where she found peace and happiness. She secretly enjoyed picking up sticks and creating backyard bonfires. She loved watching and feeding the birds, especially the cardinals that became her daily companions. Surrounded by the gentle flutter of butterflies and the cheerful songs of birds, Annette’s backyard became a living reflection of her warmth, care, and appreciation for nature’s quiet beauty.
Annette’s enthusiasm for the Cardinals baseball team was well known among friends and family, and she rarely missed a chance to root for her favorite players. Above all, she treasured moments spent with her loved ones—sharing laughter, stories, and traditions that created lasting memories for generations.
Family and Loved Ones
Annette was the daughter of the late Charles and Ellis Etta Dougherty. She was preceded in death by her parents; her brother Charles “Chuck” Richard Dougherty; her husband, Jim Lawson; her spouse, Kenneth Shaw; her daughter, Linda Kay Lawson; and her granddaughter, Anne Marie.
Her memory is carried on by her surviving children: Beverly (Kevin) Poole, Barbara (Tim) Davison, Chuck (Reverend Susan) Lawson, and Sheri (John) Barnett.
She is also remembered by her grandchildren: Miranda Engelken, Melissa Heinen, Keith Poole, Ryan Poole, Shane Lawson, Leah Lawson, Mackenzie Barnett, Selena Barnett, Madison Barnett, Alexia Martin, Ellie Barnett and Jace Barnett. Annette was also blessed with ten wonderful great-grandchildren and one great-great-grandchild, each of whom brought additional joy to her life. With any grandchild’s visit, she was sure to pass down her love for Dairy Queen ice cream.
Funeral Services have been entrusted to Pate Funeral Home, 301 South Main St., Benton, IL.
Visitation will be held on Saturday, January 10, 2026, from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m., at the First Baptist Church of Benton, 201 South Main Street, Benton, IL.
A Celebration of Annette’s life will follow the visitation at 11 a.m., on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at the First Baptist Church of Benton, with burial to follow at the Masonic and Odd Fellows Cemetery, Benton, IL.
Memorials Contributions may be made in honor of Annette’s legacy and have been suggested to the First Baptist Church of Benton, 201 South Main Street, Benton IL, 62812, in lieu of sending flowers.
Online condolences may be expressed online at www.patefh.com
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