James Lambert Jr.

James Garfield Lambert, Jr, age 91, passed away peacefully at his home on August 16, 2020. Jim was born on August 8, 1929 to James and Annie Lambert. He joined the Air Force upon graduation from Woodlawn High School and received his degree from Birmingham Southern College in 1951. He was a member of Pi Kappa Alpha Fraternity. He married Ann Bairnsfather in 1954. His professional career began at Remington Rand before moving to Merrill Lynch, where he retired in 1991. He and Ann traveled the world after his retirement. He also enjoyed watching golf and CNBC and became a Master Gardner. He served for 50+ years in many capacities for the Shades Valley Optimist Club (now Over the Mountain Optimist Club) and volunteered at the Birmingham Botanical Gardens. He and Ann enjoyed their bridge club and entertaining. He always looked forward to his Thursday night poker group for 60 years. He is survived by his daughters: Katrina Blades, Courtney Watts (Dennis) and Leigh Ann Ling (Ron). Grandchildren: Brooke Mollica, Leslie Mollica (Lucas Hoffman), Charles Mollica, Jacqueline Blades, Cindy Watts and Jared Ling (Anna). Great Grandchildren: Asher, Hazel, Savannah, Addison, Brantlee and Lila. Sister in law Ragnald Bairnsfather, nephews: Carlos Womble (Carol), Allen Lambert, Andrew Bairnsfather and Kyle Bairnsfather. He is predeceased by his wife Ann Bairnsfather Lambert, parents James Garfield and Annie Hamilton Lambert and siblings Helen Lambert Womble Boothby, Leroy Lambert, and John Frank Lambert. The family would like to express their deepest gratitude to his loving caregivers Alethia Thomason, Lora Benson, Aubrey Williams and Bridget Benefield, who greatly enhanced his final years. As a Godly man, Jim’s kind nature, honorable character and humble spirit were always demonstrated and will be truly missed. He was so thankful, especially in his last years, for everything that was done for him. A true gentleman always. A private family graveside service will be held in his honor. In lieu of flowers the family requests donations be made to Birmingham Southern College, Birmingham Botanical Gardens or Birmingham Museum of Art.