John Joseph Lambert

John was born on May 12, 1976, in Saratoga Springs, New York, to Joseph James Lambert and Meredith Wilson Lambert. From an early age, he was known for his fearless spirit, energy, and strong will. The youngest of four boys on his block, John never shied away from a challenge, whether it was riding the fastest, running the hardest, or keeping up with older kids. These traits carried through his life, shaping the man he would become.

John proudly served in the United States Army, an experience that deeply influenced his values and character. He carried forward the principles of duty, loyalty, and brotherhood long after his service ended and was widely known for living by the belief of being his “Brother’s Keeper.” This guiding principle defined how he showed up for others throughout his life. John retired as a highly decorated First Sergeant in August, 2025 after 20 years of dutiful service.

John lived with enthusiasm, curiosity, and a genuine love for people. He took great joy in finding the best New York–style pizza in every city he traveled to and made sure everyone knew where to find it. He admired military heroes and held lifelong devotion to the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees. A true movie buff, John enjoyed golf, stand-up comedy, and every genre of music. He had a special fondness for stories of kindness and good deeds and was always moved by acts of integrity and compassion. John earned a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management from Columbia Southern University, reflecting his natural leadership and care for others.

John married Laura Gabrielides on March 20, 2009, in Houston, Texas. He was fiercely protective of his family, endlessly supportive, and deeply committed to being present for the people he loved. His wife and son were the center of his world, and his greatest joy was being “Daddy.” He poured his heart into fatherhood, teaching his son right from wrong, how to love sincerely, and what it truly means to be an honorable man. He shared his impeccable humor, his love of music (including yacht rock, which became a favorite), and his curiosity about the world. In the loving words of his son, “Daddy was fun to be around, and he was super strong and funny.” A piece of John lives on in his son, a legacy he cherished deeply.

John was a man of deep faith and quiet prayer. He often shared with his family a scripture, prayer, or spiritual insight that he had been reflecting on or found inspiring. His faith guided his life, informed his actions, and grounded him through every season. He lived his beliefs through compassion, humility, and service to others.

Selfless, altruistic, and deeply compassionate, John poured himself into people, often at his own sacrifice. He embodied integrity, strong morals, and unwavering commitment to what was right. He lived by the biblical principle of being his brother’s keeper, offering help, encouragement, and counsel whenever it was needed. His impact is felt deeply, and his legacy lives on through the lives he touched and the family he loved so fiercely.

John is survived by his wife, Laura; his son, Joseph; his mother, Meredith; his siblings, Jason and Patrick; and many extended family members and friends.

A visitation will be held on December 23, 2025, from 10:30 am to 11:30 am at the American Heritage Funeral Home, located at 10710 Veterans Memorial Drive, Houston, TX 77038.

A Celebration of Life will follow on December 23, 2025, from 11:30 am to 12:30 pm, also at the American Heritage Funeral Home.

The committal service is scheduled for December 23, 2025, from 12:45 pm to 1:15 pm at the Houston National Cemetery, located at 10410 Veterans Memorial Dr, Houston, TX 77038.

A reception will take place on December 23, 2025, from 1:15 pm to 3:15 pm at the American Heritage Funeral Home.