Paul Christopher Lambert

Paul C. Lambert died peacefully at his home in New York City at age 97. He is survived by his wife Mary of 70 years, his children Jennifer, John and Mary, and his grandchildren Emily, Alex, Annika, Hanna, Siri and Charlotte. He was predeceased by his brother Joseph and his son Chris.

Paul was born on March 14, 1928, in New York City to Lorena and Prall Lambert of Middletown, New Jersey. He graduated from the Rumson Country Day School in 1942, the Hotchkiss School in 1946, Yale University in 1950 and Harvard Law School in 1953. After serving as an Army Intelligence Officer from 1953 to 1955, he began his trust and estate practice with the law firm of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley and McCloy. He was a partner at Whitman Breed Abbott & Morgan from 1966 to 1990 where he chaired the Trust and Estates Department for many years. He ended his law career at McLaughlin & Stern. From 1990 to 1992 he served as the U.S. Ambassador to Ecuador.

Paul served on numerous Boards that reflected his passion for education, health, and classical music. He was a Board member for the National Society for the Prevention of Blindness, The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center, the Brearley School, and the Hotchkiss School. He also served as the Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Association of Yale Alumni and a member of the Yale Development Board. In recognition of his service to Yale University, he was awarded the Yale Medal in 1988.

Paul loved both state and national politics relishing thoughtful discussion and spirited disagreement alike. He was a member of the Executive Committee of the New York State Republican Party from 1983 to 1990 and served as a Steering Committee and Finance Committee member of the 1988 George Bush for President election campaign. He was a member of the New York Delegation to the Republican National Conventions in 1984, 1988 and 1992.

Paul had a deep love and appreciation for sports and the outdoors. He was a lifelong Yankees fan. One of his fondest memories was playing shortstop for Yale in the 1948 College World Series. Tennis was a passion that he enjoyed playing well into his 80's. He was a singles and doubles Club champion at Seabright Lawn Tennis & Cricket Club. He also loved boating on the Navesink River and hiking and skiing on many family trips to the mountains.

Paul was hard-working with a quick wit and a host of jokes and card tricks for his grandchildren. He was loved by his family and many friends in New York and New Jersey. His work ethic, tenacity, humor and loyalty were an inspiration to many, and he will be deeply missed.

Gifts may be made in his memory to the Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center and Prevent Blindness.

A Memorial Service will be held on January 30th at 11:00 am at The Church of the Holy Trinity at 316 East 88th Street, New York, NY 10128.