Lawrence “Sonny” Lannin, 80 years and 345 days, of Big Lake passed away on Monday, Aug. 30, 2021 at his residence surrounded by his wife and children.
He was born Sept. 20, 1940 to his late parents, Cliff and Lydia Lannin of Big Lake. He believed in being productive every day. This was evident in his 32 years with Amoco as a Sr. Field Foreman. Sonny kept a written journal of his daily life events, and his last written words were, “Do you know what your last act on earth is?” His answer was, “Being a good grandparent.”
The greatest lesson ever taught by Sonny and Dewette “mama” was how to love one another unconditionally, to give all of themselves without question, and to honor each other all the days of their lives. At the end all Sonny wanted was to have “mama” hold his hand so that he could rest easy.
He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 60 years, Dewette Lannin. Together they had five children in seven years. Sonny was very proud of his children and their accomplishments which he displayed in his outdoor kitchen. His children are: Tracy Lannin of Grand Lake, Wendy Wicke (Greg) of Grand Lake, John Lannin (Lisa) of Grand Lake, Greg Lannin (Deborah) of Spring, Texas, and Rhonda Lannin of Lake Charles; one brother, Mark Lannin (Drue) of Lake Charles; three sisters, Betty Maas of Moss Bluff, Martha Sarver (Buzz) of New Orleans, and Carol Fox (Bob) of Arizona.
He leaves behind his pride and joy, 16 grandchildren: Scott, Katherine, Amanda, Alan, Tyler, Sarah, Shelby, Julianne, Joshua, Lance, Peyton, Alex, Ally, Luke, Emma, and Mary; and three great-grandchildren, Tenley, Carson, and Steele.
Sonny was preceded in death by his parents; one sister, Marie Fontenot; and his great-grandmother, Maw Barbie.
Services were held at Hixson Funeral Home in Lake Charles on Friday, Sept. 3, at 1 p.m., with Monsignor James Gaddy officiating. Visitation was at Hixson Funeral Home in Lake Charles on Friday, beginning at 11 a.m. until the Rosary at 12:30 p.m., followed by the service. Burial followed at Consolata Cemetery.
Words of comfort may be shared with the family at www.jehixson.com.
(Paid Memorial)