Eugene "Butch" Lawney, Jr., 79, passed away surrounded by the love of his family. A devoted husband, father, Poppa, brother, uncle, coach, mentor, and friend, Butch leaves behind a legacy of faith, love, leadership, and service that touched countless lives both on and off the football
field.

Born on February 26, 1947, in Hearne, Texas, Butch was the son of Eugene Lawney and Inez Wootan Lawney. He was raised in Calvert, where he developed the work ethic, character, and love for sports that would shape the rest of his life. He graduated from Calvert High School in 1965 before attending Ranger Junior College. He later earned his degree from Texas A&M University in 1970, proudly becoming an Aggie and beginning the career that became his life's calling.

For more than 40 years, Coach Lawney dedicated himself to teaching and coaching young people across Texas. He began his coaching career at Dobie High School and went on to serve at Galena Park, Clear Lake, Cleburne, Alvin, and finally Dayton High School, where he retired in 2015. Throughout his career, he impacted generations of student-athletes, teaching them not only the game of football but also discipline, perseverance, respect, and integrity. To many, he was far more than a coach—he was a mentor, role model, and lifelong friend.

While football was one of his greatest passions, nothing compared to the love he had for his family. Butch shared 45 wonderful years of marriage with the love of his life, Patricia "Trish" Lawney. Together they built a home filled with laughter, unwavering support, and unconditional love.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Trish; his children, Michael Lawney of Round Rock, Brandie Corrao and her husband Joe of College Station, Nikki Lawney of Houston, and Angie LeVier and her husband Nick of Dayton. He was a proud and devoted Poppa to Joseph Corrao and his wife Katherine, Alyssa Zimmerman and her husband Austin, Jacob Corrao and his fiancée Sarah, Ty LeVier, and Taylor LeVier. He was also blessed with the joy of becoming a great-grandfather to Ella Corrao, who brought an extra sparkle to his life.

He is also survived by his sister, Zeni Smith and her husband Rex of Calvert, along with numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, former players, colleagues, and dear friends who will forever cherish his memory.

Although Coach Lawney loved football and dedicated decades to the game, those who knew him best knew his happiest moments were spent with his family. Whether traveling to the mountains, cheering on his grandchildren at their events, sharing stories around the table, or simply enjoying time together, his family was the center of his world. Of all the titles he held throughout his life - coach, teacher, husband, father, brother, and friend—the one he treasured most was "Poppa."

Butch will be remembered for his quiet strength, steady guidance, generous heart, quick wit, and unwavering love for those around him. His influence lives on in the lives of his family, the thousands of students and athletes he coached, and everyone fortunate enough to know him.

His legacy is not measured by the games he won but by the lives he changed, the values he instilled, and the love he gave so freely. Though he will be deeply missed, his lessons, laughter, and love will remain in the hearts of all who knew him.

A visitation will take place from 12:00-1:00 p.m., Saturday, July 25, 2026 at First Methodist Church, Dayton with a memorial service to follow at 1:00 p.m. Pastor Guy Williams will officiate the service.