Obituary of Timothy J. Lawless

Timothy John Lawless passed away peacefully on September 9, 2023, at Plainview Hospital after a long illness involving serious complications and setbacks, all of which he fought with optimism, courage and grace to the very end.

Tim was born on March 28, 1955 to Thomas and Joan Lawless of Centerport, N.Y. He attended Holy Family High School where he performed in musical theater and played football. He was a beloved son, brother, father and friend to so many. He most recently lived in Northport, N.Y.

A highly prolific and active part of the professional New York music scene since the 1970’s, Tim was well known for his powerful voice and talent. He touched so many lives during his impressive career as a session singer, songwriter, producer and bandleader. He left no musical stone unturned.

His career included considerable work as a background singer/arranger for multi-platinum recording artists (including Long Island’s own, Debbie Gibson) , as well as a decades long stint as a leader and front man for numerous NY Metro area bands. He was the lead singer of the popular local band, Sweetback, as well as a founding member of Long Island’s legendary Funk Filharmonik. Tim was long known for his soulful and uniquely versatile voice, which ranged from a deep, rich baritone to a high soaring falsetto. Amongst his peers, he was also known for his seemingly effortless ability to arrange harmonies on the spot. Most recently, he co-formed and promoted the area’s new James Taylor tribute band, Hourglass.

But perhaps more important than his many accomplishments and well-earned reputation, was the amazing number of people who considered him to be one of their closest friends. He was a one of a kind personality. Almost anyone who ever met him would agree, he was one of the funniest, most outgoing, and instantly loveable people they ever met.

Equal to his passion for singing was his passion for movies, and he possessed an almost encyclopedic memory of movie quotes, both famous and obscure. He was always quick to point out the need for a pot of coffee at any gathering, although making one for himself was rarely part of the plan!

Tim is survived by his daughter, Katie Lawless, of Ocean City, N.J. and by 10 siblings: Tom Lawless (Joan) of Schroon Lake, N.Y., Mary Tucker (predeceased by husband, Kenneth Tucker) of N.Y.C., Joanne Ruotolo (George) of Cliffside Park, N.J., Kathy Graham (Bobby) of South Fallsburg, N.Y., Eileen Lawless (Ken Baumstein) of Trumbull, C.T., Peggy Lawless (predeceased by husband Stephen Smith) of Westhampton, N.Y., Monica Lawless of N.Y.C., Patty Dmuchowski (John), of East Windsor, N.J., Barbara Melillo of Islip N.Y., and Chrissy Meyer (Chris) of Greenlawn, N.Y. as well as 25 nieces and nephews, and 21 great nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by beloved parents, Tom and Joan Lawless, his sister, Donna Wisnewski, and his brother Patrick.

Tim always joked with friends that he wanted a Viking funeral, set adrift on a raft and shot at with flaming arrows by all who loved him.  Since that is neither possible, nor legal, there will be a visitation and remembrance honoring our Irish Viking at Nolan Funeral Home from 4-8 pm on Wednesday, September 20, 2023. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation in Tim’s name to one of his favorite charities, St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital or the St Vincent De Paul Society.