Tommy Joe Lawley

Tommy Joe Lawley, a man of vast knowledge and many achievements, passed away on September 13, 2024, in Arlington, Texas, at the age of 87. Born on January 13, 1937, in Kilgore, Texas, to Carl Baker Lawley and Hattie Lee Horn Lawley, Tommy was known for his brilliance, unwavering integrity, and kindness.

Tommy's academic career was remarkable. He earned a B.A. from Rice University in 1960, followed by a B.S.M.E. in 1961. He then continued his education at Southern Methodist University, where he earned his M.S.M.E. in 1966 and completed his Ph.D. in 1970.

His professional journey began in 1961 at Martin-Marietta in Denver, working in Fluid Components Design. A year later, he joined Vought Aeronautics Corp of LTV, Inc., in Grand Prairie, where he specialized in Fluid Systems Design until 1969. Tommy then embarked on a 32-year career as a Professional Engineer at the University of Texas at Arlington (UTA), retiring in 2002 at the age of 65. Throughout his career, Tommy was a prolific contributor to his field, a founding faculty member of UTA-ARRI, and a consultant for many corporations. He was a registered Professional Engineer in the state of Texas and was honored by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) as "Engineer of the Year."

In addition to his professional endeavors, Tommy was involved in several organizations, including the University Undergraduate Assembly and the Fort Worth Chapter of the Texas Alliance for Minorities in Engineering. Following retirement, he embraced his love of animals by becoming treasurer of The Dog Training Club of Dallas, inspired by his cherished German shepherd.

Tommy was also a longtime member of St. Alban's Anglican Church, which he joined with his wife in 1966. For 58 years, he and his wife faithfully served in many areas of the church, reflecting their deep commitment to their faith and community.

Tommy's interests outside of work included flower gardening, where he enjoyed raising roses and bonsai trees, as well as reading, music, and cooking. But above all, he will be remembered for his incredible character. He embodied patience, integrity, and generosity, qualities that earned him the love and respect of everyone who knew him. He was deeply devoted to his faith and his 65-year marriage, serving as a shining example to all.

He is survived by his wife, Gloria M. Lawley; children, Leslie Herbig and husband, Gregg, Lee Lawley and wife, Kathleen, Linda Leal and husband, Juan, Mary Mertz and husband, Scott; grandchildren, Dillin, Casey Lynn, Nick, Aaron, Sebastian and Anya; great-grandson, Mateo.

He is preceded in death by his brothers, Wraymon and Gale Lawley.

A service will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Friday, October 18, at St. Alban's Anglican Church, 911 S. Davis Drive, Arlington.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. Alban's Anglican Church in his name.
https://saintalbans.churchcenter.com/giving/to/tommy-lawley-memorial

 Tommy Joe Lawley's legacy will live on through the many lives he touched, his contributions to engineering, and the love he shared with his family and friends.