Lambert was born on December 28, 1947, in Denton, Texas, to John F. Koeniger and Regina Marie Trappey.
He proudly served more than 20 years in the United States Navy before retiring. He was also a lifelong athlete, proudly part of the “Going 5” State Championship basketball team at Lake Worth. His love of running led him to compete in several White Rock Lake and Cowtown Marathons, as well as the Boston Marathon in 1982.
After his military career, Lambert became a government teacher at Midland High School, where he enjoyed sharing his knowledge with his students.
In August 1986, Lambert met and fell in love with Gerianna. They married on August 6, 1992, and shared 32 years together until her passing in 2019.
Lambert enjoyed many things in life, especially golf—both playing and watching, with the Masters being a favorite. He also enjoyed playing pool at Main Event and listening to Celine Dion.
He is also remembered by Christina, his caregiver, who made sure he enjoyed his favorite daily treat: a vanilla shake with three cherries from Chick-fil-A. Her kindness and care brought him comfort and joy, and she held a special place in his life.
Lambert was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Gerianna; his parents, John F. Koeniger and Regina M. Trappey-Koeniger; his sister, Ruth K. Sullivan; his stepsons, Randy Howard and David Howard; and his grandson, William Howard.
He is survived by his stepson, Greg Howard and his wife, Janice Howard, of Starkville; stepdaughter, Linda Trice and her husband, Floyd Trice, of Lewisville, Texas; grandchildren Thomas and Michelle Manley, Shaheen and LeighAnn Hajibashi, Steven and Beverly Howard, Cory and Megan Vail, Dan and Brittany Sewald, and Aidan Howard; thirteen great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by his nieces, Lisa M. Thibodaux and Megan M. DeArmond and her husband, Eli P. DeArmond; his nephew, Frank W. Sullivan IV and his wife, Jennifer K. Sullivan; and numerous great-nieces and great-nephews.
Lambert will be remembered for his service, determination, love of sports and learning, and the many lives he touched along the way.
Pallbearers will be Shaheen, Cory, Thomas, Cyrus, Darius, and Romiro.
Services will be held October 2, 2026 at J.E. Foust & Son Funeral Directors in Grapevine. Visitation time 12:00-2:00pm and Service will be held from 2:00-3:00pm. Burial will be held at a later date at the Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.
