William Lister Lawler, Jr.
Montevallo

William Lister Lawler, Jr., lovingly known as Bill, passed away at his home in Montevallo on Monday, March 19.

Bill was born in Birmingham on April 19, 1926 to the late William L. Lawler Sr. and the late Bessie Mae Cartledge Lawler. He enlisted in the Navy at the age of 17, served two years during WWII on an LCI and ended his Naval career as an Electricians Mate 2nd Class.

He was a master machinist and entrepreneur who pioneered the modern laying cage industry. He started Lawler Manufacturing in 1948, specializing in newly innovated laying cages and farm equipment for the poultry industry. After great success, he joined with his sons at Lawler Specialties, Inc and Lawler and Sons Farm to continue the family business. Bill was devoted to his family, church, country and business.

He is survived by Ann Dismukes Lawler, his loving wife of 67 years; daughter, Dian Lawler-Johnson and husband, Jim; son, William Philip Lawler Sr. and wife, Jackie; son, W. Keith Lawler and wife, Angela; grandson, Will Lawler and wife, Deborah; granddaughter, RuthAnn Lawler Edwards and husband, Lance; granddaughter, Olivia Mae Lawler; grandson, Luke Lawler; and great grandchildren, Catelyn Lawler, Tripp Lawler, Lively Edwards and Rylan Edwards.

His life will be celebrated Saturday, March 24 at Montevallo First Baptist Church, 600 Main Street, Montevallo, AL 35115. The family will receive friends beginning at 2 p.m., services will begin at 3 p.m., and interment will follow at Montevallo Cemetery. Funeral arrangements are being provided by Rockco Funeral Home. The service will be conducted by Dr. Terry Sutton.

Memorial contributions may be made in lieu of flowers to Montevallo First Baptist Church.

He will be truly missed but never forgotten.