Don Ray Lambert

Don Ray Lambert passed away on July 21, 2024 at the age of 86 at Highpoint Health-Sumner with Ascension St. Thomas in Gallatin TN. He had been a lifelong resident of Tazewell, TN until moving to his daughter's home in Portland, TN two years ago. He was a member of Cave Springs Baptist Church.

Don loved his family above all else. But he also had strong feelings for good home cooking, cold beverages, a good cup of coffee, hanging out at the river, and growing huge gardens. He also loved telling and listening to funny stories. He liked caps and owned more than he was ever able to wear. He was especially attached to a cap that had a squirrel embroidered on the front. He called this his "lucky cap" and he wore it to all his medical appointments. He loved birds and was frequently watching, feeding, discussing, or reading about all the many bird species that made the farm their safe home. After retirement he loved taking road trips to national parks across the country.

Don was preceded in death by his parents Clifford and Cleo Hansard Lambert; father- and mother-in-law Vernon and Nila Whitaker; brothers Dorse Lambert and Dennis Lambert; sisters Della Turner and Rachel Simons. Don is survived by his wife of 65 years Lou Whitaker Lambert; daughter Dona Lambert of Portland, TN; son Doug Lambert of Tazewell, TN. Granddaughters Hannah Krause (Phillip); Savannah Mullins (Zack), and Emma Middleton (David); great grandchildren Anna and Addison Mullins and Danny and Luke Middleton; brother David Lambert; sisters Diana Day (JT) and Debbie Lunce; several nieces and nephews. He was also a stand in Grandpa to his brother Dennis' grandchildren Jacob, Sarah, Luke, and Ian.

The doctors and practitioners who cared for Don were so important to him. The family would like to particularly thank Dr. Susan Newman and the special staff at the UT Cancer Institute, whose skills and expertise resulted in successful treatment of two separate cancer diagnoses over the past two decades. There were also multiple other physicians, surgeons, therapists, and specialists who cared for him through the years. Finally, the family would like to express gratitude to the staff at Highpoint Health-Sumner and Highpoint Hospice who cared for Don in the last weeks of his life.

 Crestview Funeral Home has been entrusted with Don Lambert's final arrangements. In keeping with Don's wishes no formal funeral services are planned at this time. The family asks that in lieu of flowers donations be made to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital or Wounded Warriors.