Jeffrey Dale “J.D.” Lawson of War, West Virginia, was called home on February 17,2025, while doing what he loved, responding to someone in need.

Jeffrey was born on October 30, 1970, in Welch, West Virginia. Known to his West Virginia family as “Jeff” and to his Maryland family as “J.D.,” he lived his life serving others.

Jeffrey joined the War Volunteer Fire Department in June 1985 and worked his way through the ranks to serve as the deputy fire chief. In March 1989, Jeffrey decided to serve his community as a police officer for his hometown of War, West Virginia. In July of 1990, Jeffrey transferred to the Bluefield Police Department, where he served until August 1997. JD made his way to Maryland in 1997, as he joined the Berlin Police Department in Berlin, Maryland. During his time in Berlin, Jeffrey served in many capacities. One of his proudest accomplishments was serving as the department’s SWAT commander. He also served as the department’s firearms instructor.

He retired from Berlin on September 30, 2023. At the time of his retirement, JD was serving as the department’s patrol commander, holding the rank of lieutenant. JD’s service to others in Maryland also included the Ocean City Fire Department, where he served as captain. He joined OCFD in October 1997 and was a life member at the time of his passing.

Immediately following his retirement from the Berlin Police Department, JD returned home with his loving wife, Bernadette, to War, West Virginia, where he began operating heavy equipment for Delric Corp.

Jeffrey was a very loving husband, father, stepfather, warrior, and friend. During precious time off, Jeff was found with his wife, riding the mountain trails, hunting, target shooting, teaching, loving his large family of pets, and living life to the fullest.