Barkley V. Lambert

Barkley V. Lambert was born on April 19, 1953, in Rockford, Illinois to William “Big Bill” and Lucille Stevenson Lambert. Barkley accepted Jesus Christ, as his Lord and Savior at an early age.

Barkley was a 1972 graduate of West High School in Rockford, Illinois. He made history as being the first African American Firefighter in Rockford, Illinois. He served with the department for over 23 years.

Barkley enjoyed the simple pleasures that life offered. He moved to Gurdon, Arkansas and united with Kingdom Authority Christian Ministries, where he served as an usher. He would regularly attend Mt. Canaan Baptist Church in Gurdon and Greater Pleasant Hill Baptist Church in Arkadelphia.

He was a former employee of Tyson Foods. He loved all sports, but especially women’s athletics. He enjoyed watching Game of Thrones, and Yellowstone. Barkley was unique in his own way. He also enjoyed spending time with his family. He took immense pride in being a favorite uncle.

In his spare time, he enjoyed the company of his family and close friends. He loved to entertain, be entertained and particularly loved the competition associated with dominoes and the hilarious bragging rights stemming from his frequent wins. His had a great love and passion for photography.

Above all, he will be remembered for his unwavering commitment to family and friendship. Barkley was known and loved by everyone. A uniquely funny comedian, Barkley always had a delightful story to share that would end in laughter. He was a true “Ladies Man” and he never met a person who did not become a friend.

He passed from this life on Sunday, January 1, 2023, at Baptist Health Medical Center in Arkadelphia, Arkansas. He was preceded in death by his parents, William, and Lucille Lambert; two sisters, Theair Morris and Barbara Lambert-Scot; two brothers, Cyril-Gracie Lambert and Leon Lambert; two granddaughters, Ryan Olivia and Tylar Noel.

Barkley is survived by his five children, Derrick (Guenada) Lambert of Cincinnati, OH, Leah Lambert of Chicago, IL, Vincent Lambert and Latara Brown both of Rockford, IL, and Sondra (Michael) Verser of Orlando, FL; two bonus children, Travia Foy and Tremere Foy both of Beloit, WI; nine grandchildren, his companion of over 30 years, Jackie; two sisters, Shelia Lambert Cheairs and Jasmin Boyd both of Rockford, IL; two brothers, Rev. Ivor (Myrendia) Lambert of Jacksonville, FL and Alvin (Jackie) Lambert of Kansas City, MO; and aunt Rev. Thelda Lambert of New Jersey; his best friend and high school classmate, Dr. Russell Cephus; best friends, Ken Ketton and Daniel Sallis. He also leaves a host of nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.

Public visitation will be from noon until 6:00 p.m. on Friday, January 13, 2023, at the funeral home.

A celebration of his life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 14, 2023, at New Faithway Church of God In Christ in Holly Springs, AR with Dr. Russell Cephus, eulogist and Rev. Lyndon Lambert, officiant. Interment will be at White Springs Community Cemetery in Bearden, Arkansas.

Donations in memory of Barkley Lambert can be made to the Lambert Community Reunion & White Springs Community Cemetery.