It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Ann Crocker Lawton, at her home in Cocoa Beach surrounded by her children on July 6, 2026. Born on September 1, 1937, in Albany, New York. She attended the State University of New York and became a substitute teacher. Ann lived a life defined by service, generosity, devotion to family, and an unwavering commitment to her community.

 Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband of 61 years, Lt. Colonel Robert "Bob" Lawton, former Mayor of Cocoa Beach. Together they built a remarkable life centered on service and family. She is lovingly remembered by her children, Tamera Lawton Circello and her husband, Gimi; Neil Robert Lawton and his wife, Beth; Lori Lawton Wade and her husband, Bren; and by her grandchildren, Anthony Vona, Jake Wade, and Josh Wade and his wife, Allie; who brought her immeasurable joy and pride. 

A longtime resident of Cocoa Beach, Ann dedicated countless hours to improving the community she loved. She was the owner of Ann's Variety Store and Director of the Brevard Museum; her extensive civic involvement included serving as Director of the Space Coast Art Festival, Director of the Brevard County Community Services Council, Board Member of Cape Canaveral Hospital, Board Member of the Business Improvement Council and a member of the Cocoa/Titusville Junior Service League. She was also an Officer of the Cocoa Beach Women's Club, President of the Patrick Air Force Base Officers' Wives Club and proudly served as Regent of the Cape Canaveral Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution all while being a devoted wife, mother, and homemaker. 

As the wife of an Air Force officer, Ann embraced a life of adventure and sacrifice, creating a home wherever military service took them. During Lt. Colonel Lawton's deployment to Vietnam, she courageously "held down the fort," in the Philippines, raising their family with strength, grace, and resilience. 

Ann found joy in life's simple pleasures, including genealogy, bridge, tennis, piano and weekends spent waterskiing. Whether researching family history, traveling or gathering loved ones together, she was the matriarch who created memories that will be cherished for generations. 

Ann's legacy is one of quiet strength, and community service. Her kindness touched countless lives, and her example will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be laid to rest with her beloved husband at Arlington National Cemetery, where they will be reunited in honored rest. She will be deeply missed, forever remembered, and carried in the hearts of her family and friends.

 In lieu of flowers, donations in her name to University of Florida Center for Translational Research in Neurodegenerative Disease would be appreciated. 

We invite you to offer your messages of sympathy and support by sharing a condolence in her online guestbook at www.davisseawinds.com.