Obituary of John W. Lawler

LAWLER, JOHN W. 71 born March 23, 1953, passed suddenly, but peacefully Monday July 1, 2024, at home in Glenside, PA. Being the first born of an Air Force family, he lived in many parts of the U,S., John was born in Texas and traveled across the U.S for a large part of his childhood, between Texas, North Dakota, and Puerto Rico before the family came back to Atlantic City, New Jersey. He continued to travel as an adult making his way to Alaska where he felt most at home, surrounded by nature, and always wanted to go back. John was an entrepreneur at heart. Owning several businesses but most proud of a franchise of the Original Bookbinders in Philadelphia, at the Bellevue. John loved bird watching, fishing, crabbing and just sitting around listening to music and telling tales of life to anyone who would listen, or as he called it "shootin the breeze". You could never forget an encounter with John/Johnny/Ole Man/UJ, whatever you called him -he was unforgettable. John had his own way of caring for everyone and would literally give you the shirt off his back (or anyone else's back) or the last penny in his pocket. Which happened very often! Just ask his niece Shana who was always replenishing his pockets. John cherished his time with his grandkids and all the little "Stinkers" in the neighborhood, be it Deleware, PA., or when visiting back home in AC. He made every place he lived a wonderful neighbor. He is predeceased by his father J.W. Lawler, brothers Joe L, J.T. and Royce/Pat. He leaves behind to cherish his memory - his loving dedicated Mother Helen (nee Doran). siblings Marie (Jerry), Matt (Tina), Greg Johnson (Sharon) and Julie; son Michael (Morgan) and their childen Tristan, Kiera and Sydney and son Robert John (RJ); his friend and ex-wife Bets Ridings. John also leaves behind many cousins, nieces and nephews and aquaintances that became friends. He never met a stranger, and his stories and tall tales are legendary. He will be missed by many . Enjoy fishing in heaven! A service will be held - Saturday, September 14, 2024 at the Gormley Funeral Home LLC 2706 Atlantic Avenue, Atlantic City, NJ 08401 starting at 11:00am. Fr.Paul Wise will be saying a few words and prayers around noon.