Maleika G. Lawson

Maleika Lawson, 50, passed away on February 22, 2024, in Waldorf, Md. Maleika was born on June 6, 1973, in Gainesville, FL, to Jerome Howell and Jackie Robinson.

Maleika's educational journey started with Ed White High School in 1991, where she participated in the flag team in the band and lettered in softball.  After graduation, she enrolled at Bethune Cookman College (now University). In 2001, she obtained her Bachelor of Science in Education from Jacksonville University.

Maleika's professional career in education began in 2001 with Duval County Public Schools (DCPS) Maleika guided numerous students to proficiency in reading. After gaining a few years of experience as a teacher, she pursued further education, obtaining a Master of Science in Reading Education from Nova University in 2012. In August 2012, Maleika embarked on a new chapter at Jean Ribault Middle School (JRMS), initially as a reading interventionist and subsequently as a reading coach. Her dedication to students and educators alike was evident as she led reading instruction and facilitated access to a brighter future through literacy. By the conclusion of the 2014 school year, Maleika decided to apply her exceptional skills within the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS). In August 2014, she commenced her role as a reading specialist at Noyes Education Campus, continuing her impactful journey in fostering literacy and educational growth. In August 2018, she was chosen to be an Assistant Principal at Brightwood Elementary School where she helped lead.

Maleika married Larry Lawson Jr. on January 29, 1993, in Jacksonville, FL. The couple had 4 children, Brandon Lawson, Briana Lawson, Brian Lawson, and Braylen Lawson. Maleika was best known for running 5K races and marathons, having run over 15 races mostly with Black Girls Run in Jacksonville and Washington DC, and for selling Paparazzi, amassing a massive team of other business builders. She also cherished reading books whenever she got the chance.

Maleika is survived by so many loved ones including: her husband of 31 years Larry Lawson Jr., and children, Brandon Lawson, Briana Lawson, Brian Lawson, Braylen Lawson, and grandson Marcellus Gibson. Her mother Jackie Robinson, her uncle Curtis (Teresa) Johnson, and siblings Carla (Alandrey) Brown, TJ (Candice) Hall, Andrea Thomas Hall. Her nieces and nephews Kayla Brown, Justin Way, Deondre Hall, Niteria Hall, and Tatiana Hall. Along with other extended family, coworkers, and loving friends.