Jennings mother plans birthday party for community after her little boy was killed by fallen tree a year ago

A year ago, the young kindergarten graduate succumbed to his injuries after a tree fell through his bedroom as a result of a storm.

JENNINGS, Missouri – LaWanda Thomas’ life changed forever on July 1, 2023.

Her son, five-year-old Robert “RJ” Lawrence III, died just days before his sixth birthday.

A year ago, a storm came through and a tree fell through the bedroom of the newly graduated kindergarten student.

“I go to bed with that smile and wake up with that smile. He was a happy child,” Thomas said.

It is a smile that she wears proudly.

Thomas met 5 On Your Side wearing a t-shirt with pictures of RJ all over it.

On Thursday, Thomas represented her son at Jennings’ Pocket Park, a place where RJ will soon be honored.

“I’m still processing all of this, I’m still surviving. I’m trying to get through it, it’s still fresh, but all I want to do is have a happy moment and celebrate it and honor it,” she added.

The anniversary is just a few days before his 7th birthday.

“I want everyone and the kids to be there and have fun because he’s still here running around and playing,” Lawrence said.

A party in the park is planned.

Jennings native and community activist Aja Owens met Thomas during the tragedy.

Since then, she has not left her side.

“When I found out about this family a year ago, of course, to me, this wasn’t just any family. They live in Jennings, so the call came immediately. I grew up in this community, it was like a village. It was a no-brainer to come to help,” Owens told 5 On Your Side.

Owens joins in the celebrations and there is an outpouring of support.

“Wow, so many people are coming to help and support, it’s amazing. It touched my heart so much, I’m overwhelmed,” said Thomas.

Thomas explained that the theme would be Sonic the Hedgehog, a character that RJ idolized.

Thomas said, “He will always be my Sonic.”

This passion continues. RJ’s little brother Rayden loves Sonic too. Rayden was running around Pocket Park with his Sonic shirt and his Sonic toy in his hand.

“My motto for my kids is, ‘I am my brother’s protector.’ He will always support RJ and carry on his brother’s legacy,” Thomas added.

Thomas prays that the passion and the party will bring RJ a big smile again.

“My baby will have the birthday he has always wanted,” said Thomas.

The celebration of life and birthday party will be held on July 18th at Pocket Park in Jennings.