Elizabeth P. Lawless

The family of Elizabeth P. Lawless is deeply saddened to announce her passing on March 11, 2026. Born on February 17, 1933 in Ballinrobe, Ireland to her parents Michael and Mary (Cooney) Walsh and led a full and remarkable life. She attended the University of Madrid and University of Genoa. Elizabeth touched the hearts of everyone she met through her work advocating for the minorities and women in the Montgomery County court system. It was during this period that she was certified by the PA State Police to assist in investigations concerning sex crimes and child abuse. She had the gift of making people feel comfortable and welcome, being able to speak with anyone, anywhere, anytime.

In her retirement, Elizabeth was a nanny and volunteered at Einstein Hospital neonatal care unit and at the Valley Forge Memorial Chapel bookstore. Trained as a classical pianist, she had a deep love for classical and jazz music. She also loved taking care of plants, antique shopping, was an avid reader and was conversant in several languages. It was while working in Madrid, Spain that she met her husband, John T. Lawless, whom she would marry in 1960. Elizabeth is predeceased by her brother, Thomas Kelly; sister, Violet Walsh Mellett; and her former spouse, John T. Lawless.

She is survived by her children, Deirdre DellaPolla, John Lawless, Michael Lawless, and their partners; grandchildren, Elizabeth Anne Lawless, Mia Butler (Travis), Michael DellaPolla, and Olivia Lawless; one great granddaughter, Maddie Butler; her sisters, Yvonne Campbell and Valda Walsh; as well as cherished friends.

A celebration of life will be held at Washington Memorial Chapel in Valley Forge Park, 2000 Valley Forge Park Rd, King of Prussia, PA 19406 on Saturday, March 21, 2026 at 11:00am. Visitation hour will be from 10am to 10:50am in the library attached to the sanctuary. Interment will be private.

The family thanks the staff of St. Martha’s in Downingtown, PA for their compassion and care.

In lieu of flowers, if you would like to plant a tree in Elizabeth’s memory you may do so on her obituary page at www.bacchifh.com.

Arrangements are by the Bacchi Funeral Home & Crematory, Bridgeport, PA.