Eugenia G. Lawless Obituary (1930 - 2026)

Eugenia Gertrude "Jean" Lawless, a woman who celebrated life to its fullest, left us on February 22, 2026, surrounded by the warmth of her family in her beloved hometown, Princeton. Born to Uriah and Mary (McIver) Howland on December 21, 1930, Jean's journey was one that was as unique as it was inspiring. Her spirit was woven into the fabric of Princeton, just as her stitches were woven into the clothes she lovingly made. Jean's life was a tapestry of love, laughter, and hard work. From her high school graduation from Princeton High School in 1950 to her wedding on April 28, 1951, to Stephen Hazen Lawless, Jean welcomed each chapter of her life with open arms. She was a dedicated seamstress for over fifty years and found joy in various other professions. She was known for her love of card games, playing cards every Tuesday afternoon with the "Card Gals", Bonnie, Sylvia, Penny, Debby, Sylvia, Natalie, and Ruth, her culinary skills, her love for fishing, camping, and travels, and her spontaneous trips to the Hollywood Casino. Jean's creativity was evident in her knitting and crocheting, but it was her passion for family, particularly her grandchildren, that truly defined her. Jean now joins her beloved husband Stephen, her parents, her children, Mary Ellen, Debra Joyce, and Kathy Joe; and siblings and their spouses, Dorothy and Bruce Heffren, Ruth and John Nicol, Kenneth and Virginia Howland, Harold and June Howland, Lloyd and Kathleen Howland, Althea and George McLaughlin, Uriah Jr. , Edna, and Virginia Howland, and Bruce and Evelyn Howland, in eternal peace. Their memories, however, continue to live on in the hearts of those she leaves behind. She is survived by her children, Stephen “Mike” Lawless and wife Darlene of Alexander, Susan Lawless of Princeton, and Linda Lawless of Big Lake Twp; her cherished grandchildren, Chris, Ashley, and Amy, and her great-grandchildren, Alexis, Cassandra, Rylee, Ellie, Steven, and Lois Renee. Jean's zest for life and love for her family also extended to her nieces, nephews, and dear friends, who were like family to her, special nieces and nephews, Butch and Linda, Carol and Bob, and Vicki and Tom; and dear friends Becky and Bernie Hussey. Jean's life was a testament to the power of love, resilience, and a deep sense of community. Her journey was not just about her, but about the countless lives she touched, the smiles she brought to faces, and the love she spread. A special acknowledgment to Sally Johnson, not only her doctor but also a confidant and dear friend, for her excellent care of Jean. Arrangements for Jean's services are entrusted to Mays Funeral Home & Cremation Services. A graveside service will be held at 10 a.m. on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at Calais Cemetery, followed by a fellowship at the Princeton Baptist Church. Pastor Scott Chesebrough will officiate. We invite you to share your memories and upload photos of Eugenia on her memorial page at www.MaysFuneralHome.com. Your stories and pictures will help us remember and celebrate the vibrant life that Jean led.