Gustavus Lankai Lawson

Gustavus "Gus" Lankai Odartey Lante Lawson was bone in Accra, Ghana on September 27, 1993 to Samuel Odartei and Naa Dodua Lawson. He was the youngest of nine with three brothers Frederick, Adolphus, and Emanuel, and five sisters, Lillian, Lydia, Letitia, and Sarah.

A talented and inquisitive young boy, Gus received a full scholarship to Accra Academy, a prestigious boarding school run by the Catholic Charities, the first in his family to receive such an honor. During high school he also spent time studying in London, England before coming to the United States to attend Wilberforce University in Ohio where he received his Bachelor of Sciences degree in mathematics. He later received a Master’s Degree from ITT University in New York.

While living in New York pursuing a career in Information Technology, he met Norma Jean Robertson, and the two married in June 1963. He introduced her to the world of computer programming and they ultimately settled in Middletown, NY working for Logos Computer Development Corporation. The couple raised four children: Shirley, Gustavus Jr., Christopher, and Barbara.

Gus and Norma both came from humble backgrounds, valuing education, family, and faith above all else. They instilled these values in their children, encouraging each to pursue their dreams. As a result, all four children attended college and remain close to this day.

A quiet and thoughtful man, Gus often sacrificed his time and energy to provide for his family. He was also a lifelong learner, always improving his professional skills. He avidly read the Bible for guidance as a husband and father.

But Gus also had a creative side. He was very interested in men’s fashion, amassing a collection of ties and suits to rival those of many celebrities. Gus also loved to cook, often preparing dishes from his homeland, as well as many American classics like barbecued ribs. Among his other hobbies were watching soccer, football, basketball, science fiction and action movies and going on nature walks with his children.

He was preceded in death by his wife Norma Jean Lawson, his parents Samuel and Naa Dodua Lawson, siblings Frederick, Lillian Lydia, Letitia, Sarah, Adolphus, Grace, and Emanuel.

He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins both here in the United States and in Ghana. Gus’s legacy will be carried forward through his four children: Shirley, Gus Jr., Chris, and Barbara who share many fond memories of their Dad.

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