“A Shining Light Gone Too Soon”: Gallipolis Mourns the Sudden Loss of 19-Year-Old Devan Lawson
Gallipolis, Ohio, is reeling from the devastating and unexpected loss of 19-year-old Devan Lawson, who passed away on August 4, 2025. A young life filled with promise, laughter, and love was suddenly cut short under circumstances that remain unclear, leaving a tight-knit community grieving and searching for answers.
Devan was more than a name—more than a statistic or a headline. Devan was joy in human form. Known for their infectious smile, vibrant personality, and deep connection with family and friends, Devan brought light to everyone they encountered. From making people laugh in the school hallways to supporting friends through their darkest days, Devan had a rare ability to see people—and make them feel seen in return.
The news of Devan’s sudden collapse and passing sent shockwaves through Gallipolis and beyond. Though initial reports are still under investigation, the unexpected nature of their death has left many speechless, asking the haunting question: How can someone so full of life be gone so suddenly?
A Family’s Heart Shattered, A Community United in Grief
Devan is survived by their loving parents, Justin Lawson and Mary Cole, and siblings Justin, Finley, and Arianna. Their heartbreak is immeasurable, their world forever altered.
“Devan was our heartbeat,” said Mary through tears. “There’s no preparing for this kind of pain. They were our everything.”
In the days following their passing, neighbors, classmates, teachers, and strangers flooded the family’s home with candles, flowers, and handwritten letters. A memorial wall has been set up at the local park—one of Devan’s favorite places to watch sunsets and write in their journal. Notes pinned to the wall read: “You made high school bearable.” “Thank you for being kind when no one else was.” “You mattered.”
A candlelight vigil is scheduled for September 10th at the Gallipolis City Park at 7 PM. The family encourages the community to come together not only in mourning but in celebration of a life that burned bright—even if only for a short while.
Devan’s Legacy: Love, Light, and Lasting Impact
Though Devan’s life was brief, their impact is eternal. Their legacy will live on in the laughter of their siblings, in the stories shared among friends, and in the quiet, sacred moments their loved ones will never forget.
Devan had dreams—big ones. They spoke of traveling, writing a book, starting a podcast about mental health, and creating a safe space for teens struggling to find their place in the world. Though those dreams were left unfulfilled in this lifetime, Devan’s spirit will carry them forward.
The family is in the early stages of launching The Devan Lawson Memorial Fund, aimed at supporting young people facing mental health challenges and helping them find light in their darkest times.