MMCSC Dedicates “Craig Lawson Tree of Life” in Honor of Fallen Lakewood Officer

Community leaders, hospital officials, and members of the Lakewood Police Department gathered Thursday morning at Monmouth Medical Center Southern Campus (MMCSC) for an emotional ceremony dedicating the newly installed “Craig Lawson Tree of Life,” a permanent tribute to Lakewood Police Officer Craig Robert Lawson, who died in 2016 at age 31.

The Tree of Life, displayed prominently in the Emergency Department waiting room, honors Officer Lawson’s service and legacy as the son of former Lakewood Police Chief Robert Lawson and his wife, Janet. The ceremony drew a broad cross-section of local leadership, including Deputy Mayor and MMCSC Board Member Menashe Miller; Committeeman and Emergency Services Liaison Meir Lichtenstein; Committeewoman Debbie Fuentes; Township Manager Pat Donnelly; MMCSC COO Trish Komsa; Lakewood Police Captain Steve Allaire; MMCSC Chief Administrative Officer Dr. Philip Passes; and MMCSC Board Member Robert Sickel. They were joined by additional hospital leaders, board members, and a large delegation of Lakewood police officers.

Deputy Mayor Miller and Committeeman Lichtenstein each dedicated a leaf on the Tree of Life, and together with Committeewoman Fuentes presented Chief and Janet Lawson with an official proclamation from Lakewood Township recognizing the memorial. Captain Allaire reflected on Officer Lawson’s “quiet commitment” during his two years of service, describing him as a model of dedication within the department.

Speaking at the ceremony, Miller said the tribute symbolizes unity and remembrance. “‘Tree of Life’ is a biblical term that signifies meaningful blossoming,” he noted. “This is our way of coming together to commemorate Craig’s life.” Lichtenstein, recalling decades of work alongside the Lawson family, added that the memorial reflects the values they embodied. “In the Talmud, a tree is the quintessential parable for one whose fruits emerge similar to the source,” he said. “This tree is a fitting testament to the life’s work of Chief and Janet Lawson and their son Craig.”

Hospital officials said the Tree of Life will remain a lasting symbol of service, compassion, and community partnership within MMCSC.