Hawley Ellis Lawliss, 62

AMESBURY – Son, brother, uncle, friend, and neighbor.

Hawley Ellis Lawliss was born in Burlington, Vermont, on July 17, 1963, and was the beloved son of the late Donald and Bertina Lawliss. From the moment he arrived, he brought joy, curiosity, and a gentle spirit that stayed with him throughout his life.

In the summer of 1971, Hawley moved with his family to Amesbury, where his father became principal of Amesbury High School. Amesbury quickly became a place he deeply loved and was proud to call home. Amesbury was more than a hometown — it became the place Hawley claimed with pride, where he built friendships, routines, and a life he loved. A proud 1982 graduate of Amesbury High School, Hawley had perfect attendance and was actively involved in school life. He participated in track, served as the student equipment manager for the football team, and carried a lifelong affection for Amesbury High School and the community that shaped him. 

Hawley found joy in staying active and being involved in something bigger than himself. As a young person, he participated in the Summer Special Olympics, and more recently he took part and won a silver medal in the giant slalom at the Winter Special Olympics, an accomplishment he treasured. He grew up skiing with his family and continued the tradition into adulthood. He was also an enthusiastic bike rider and was a familiar and welcome sight around Amesbury, whether riding for work or simply for pleasure. A devoted fan of Amesbury High School sports, he also faithfully cheered for the Boston Red Sox, New England Patriots, Boston Bruins, and Boston Celtics.

Hawley had a generous heart and a deep desire to help others. For many years, he participated in The Walk for Hunger and Relay for Life, always eager to give back to those in need. He was also a dedicated Red Cross blood donor for decades, quietly giving of himself in ways that made a real difference.

The values of faith, love, service, and kindness lovingly instilled by his parents and nurtured by his church family, guided Hawley throughout his life. He was a familiar and welcome presence at Main Street Congregational Church in Amesbury, helping wherever he was needed and offering his time with a willing and caring spirit. He loved to sing and treasured being part of the church choir, especially when he was given the joy of a solo.

Above all else, Hawley dearly loved his family. He was a devoted and loving son, brother, and uncle whose warmth, loyalty, and kindness will be remembered always. In addition to being predeceased by his parents, Donald and Bertina Lawliss, he leaves behind his loving brother Robert Lawliss and sister-in-law Valorie Faretra of Pembroke, New Hampshire; his brother William Lawliss and sister-in-law Laurie Lawliss of Amesbury; and his cherished nephew Ryan Lawliss and niece Julia Lawliss.

There will be a Celebration of Life on Saturday May 30, 2026, at 1:00pm at Main Street Congregational Church, 145 Main St, Amesbury, MA 01913. Attendees are encouraged to wear New England sportswear as Hawley would approve (AHS gear is acceptable). At the family’s request, there will be no calling hours. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made in his name to Coastal Connections, 4 Noel St, Amesbury, MA 01913. https://www.coastalconnections.org/donate

Arrangements are by the E.V. Jutras & Sons Funeral Home.

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