Carroll High School’s basketball player Joshua Lawson tragically passed away at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.
Joshua Lawson was a student with special needs at Carroll High School in Ozark, Alabama. However, he was able to live out his dream of playing basketball.
Known for spending time with the players and coaches during the school day, Josh had long dreamed of being part of the Carroll Eagles team.
After his mother shared his passion for the sport with the coaching staff, the team allowed him to suit up and start in a game against Pike County.
Joshua scored his first basket quickly after tip-off, sparking an emotional moment that ended with him telling coach Jermieke Cliatt, “I love you so much, coach.”
The Eagles not only won the game 71-31 but also won the hearts of everyone watching.
Last December, Coach Cliatt and the Carroll High School basketball team honored Joshua as their Honorary Teammate #22.
Basketball Player Joshua Lawson Tragically Died At Children’s Hospital
Joshua Lawson, a basketball player at Carroll High School, tragically died in July 2025.
According to the source, he was admitted to the CVICU at Children’s Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama.
Carroll High School took to their official Facebook handle to announce the news and mourn the loss. They wrote,
Carroll High School mourns the loss of Joshua Lawson, a beloved member of our school family. Josh touched the lives of so many students with his kindness, and encouragement. His presence brought light and comfort to those around him, and his impact will be felt for years to come. We will truly miss you, Josh. Your legacy lives on in the hearts of those you inspired. With love and gratitude, The Carroll High School Family
Carroll High School
A physical education teacher at East Samford School, Makia Bennett-Plott, also offered her heartfelt condolences by stating,
I’ve lost two former students, in two weeks. Zynniya Wright and Joshua Lawson! This one here held a special place in my heart! We had to announce Josh into the gym, every Friday, while playing John Cena’s theme song! He would run around the gym (his wrestling ring), and the students would cheer for him!! He would ask me everyday if John Cena was coming to the school, and I would pretend to call him. If I ever could have made a wish come true, John Cena showing up at D A Smith to see Josh would have been one of them! Praying for all who knew Josh and Zynniya.
Makia Bennett-Plott
Les Perault, a director at First United Methodist Church of Ozark, also mourned the loss of Joshua. He wrote,
Saddened to hear of the passing of Josh Lawson. Prayers of comfort, and peace for the Lawson family. These pictures are from the evening last December when Coach Cliatt and the Carroll High School Basketball team honored Josh as their Honorary Teammate #22, it was a special evening and it made my night!
Les Perault
Other close ones and relatives have poured their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Joshua’s parents to stay strong in this challenging time.
His parents have stayed out of the media spotlight, but they have always supported him in achieving his academic and athletic goals.
Earlier on Friday, July 4, 2025, Joshua’s sister, Savanna Lawson from Ozark, Alabama, organized a fundraising campaign on GoFundMe when Joshua was hospitalized.
The campaign aimed to collect $4.5k, but it only collected $40.
Joshua will be remembered for his contribution as a basketball player at Carroll High School. The funeral service schedule will be announced soon by his family.
Rest in Heaven, Joshua Lawson.
Joshua Lawson Is Survived By His Parents And Sister
Joshua Lawson was born to his parents, Marshall Lawson and Courtney Lawson.
According to Marshall’s Facebook profile, he resides in Dothan, Alabama, and attended Dale County High School.
He was an ironworker at Iron Workers Union Local 798. Previously, he worked at Firestone Complete Auto Care.
Marshall and Courtney always supported Joshua in achieving his athletic and academic dreams.
Currently, they are mourning the loss of their son, Joshua.
In addition, Joshua is also survived by his sister, Savanna Lawson.
In Case You Didn’t Know
- The Carroll High School basketball team announced that they will proudly dedicate their 2025-2026 basketball season to Joshua Lawson.
- Marshall Lawson’s mother-in-law, Irene Bradley, lives in Abbeville, Alabama, and went to Americus Sumter County High School.
