Lawnell Hallman was born on September 1, 1953, in Lowndes County to Charlie and Mable Hallman. He gave his life to the Lord in 1999 and became a dedicated member of Maranatha Faith Center, where he served faithfully as a door greeter, parking lot attendant, and member of the men's choir. He loved participating in church activities and took pride in serving the Lord.

Lawnell's work history included many years with Bo's Auto Service in Rainville, AL, Cox Auto Services in Columbus, MS, and later part-time with Columbus Hyundai. His passion as a mechanic eventually led him to open his own shop, Lawnell's Auto Repairs. Owning his own business provided him with the opportunity to serve the community with impeccable skills, honesty, and integrity.

On April 1, 2000, Lawnell and Bessie married, and together they raised five children. Family was the center of his life. As a father, he helped when needed, gave advice but ensured his children lived independent lives. He had a strong work ethic, dedicated, and attempted to lead by example. He had a gift for helping people and that gave him a sense of purpose. Whether he was working under the hood of a car, offering advice, or simply listening, he did it with humility and kindness. His word was your bond and that dependable presence will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Ora Lee Petty, Rosie Mae Ervin, J.D. Richardson, Robert L. Richardson

He leaves to cherish his loving memories: His wife, Bessie Williams Hallman of Columbus, MS; his children, Keith Jethrow of Memphis, TN, Derico (Christina) Howard of Columbus, MS, Crystal Howard of El Paso, TX, Jan (Walter Jr.) Cheeks of Douglasville, GA, Lenell Watts of Columbus, MS; his siblings, Martha (McArthur) Harris, Jewel D. Jones, Johnny R. Hallman, Charles D. Hallman all of Columbus, MS; eleven grandchildren; 4 great-grandchildren.  He also leaves a host of sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.