William Lambert

William Lambert obituary, Rancho Mirage, CA

William Lambert

William Lambert Obituary

Published by Legacy Remembers on Jan. 28, 2025.
William Chester Lambert III, MD

January 17, 2025

William Chester Lambert III, beloved husband, brother, uncle, and friend, went to Heaven on January 17, 2025. He was the only son of the late Norma Ann Kelton Lambert and William Chester Lambert Jr.

Bill leaves behind his devoted husband, Kevin Totems, who loved and cared for him faithfully, as well as his cherished fur baby, Alexis, who was always by his side. Bill is also survived by his sister, Eve Lambert Soltau, and brother-in-law, Scott Soltau, as well as his much-loved nieces and nephews: Justin, Kayley, and Jackson Soltau; Taylor, Sara, Brooks, Huck, and Millie Soltau; and Lauren Kelton Soltau. His Aunt Jaqueline "Bootsie" Porter, along with cousins Jan Wendell, Jill Gray, Robert Lambert, Michelle Lambert Culberson, Kay Lambert Brown, Ann Lambert Hosutt, Carolyn Edge, Jo Ann Piet, and Becky Galletly, also survive him.

Bill's honorary family was extensive and deeply cherished, including, among others: Carla Ravarino (whom he considered his other sister), Perree Reeves Collier (who flew out to celebrate his 70th), Rob Overall, Hansel Huval, Carol Dial Callis, Neal Dettmer, John O'Brien, and Tom Bogle.

Whether known as William or Bill, he was a man whose greatest joy was being surrounded by family and friends. He prioritized relationships, finding immense happiness in a good visit, a shared meal, and telling stories. His first love was his Father in Heaven, and he was a devoted member of Saint John's Cathedral in Denver, CO, where his presence and kindness touched all who knew him.

Born in Gadsden, AL, Bill graduated from Gadsden High School, where he played trumpet in the marching band. He was also a member of First Presbyterian Church, actively involved in the youth group. Bill came to know Jesus at 12th Street Baptist Church, where he was baptized alongside his sister and parents at the age of 10. He proudly attended the University of Alabama before graduating from the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. His passion for medicine led him to a successful career in the pharmaceutical industry.

For 38 years, Bill worked in various roles within Medical Affairs, serving as a Senior Medical Science Liaison (MSL) and MSL Director. He was a cherished leader who inspired colleagues and teams, always keeping the focus on the patient. He played a significant role in conducting clinical trials and educating physicians in rare diseases, hematology, oncology, and neurology. One of his proudest accomplishments was being a founding member of the Medical Science Liaison Society, alongside Dr. Samuel Dyer. In addition, Bill was a licensed real estate agent in Missouri and Florida.

An avid traveler, Bill had a love for exploring both the USA and the world. He especially enjoyed sharing these experiences with friends and family, particularly on overseas holidays. Bill also had a special fondness for the beach, especially 30A. Recently, he retired to Rancho Mirage, CA, after living in Denver, CO for many years.

William's highest calling was to serve others, an extension of his deep faith. Saint John's Cathedral nurtured his giving spirit, where he made fellow parishioners feel seen and valued. He assisted in feeding the homeless, served as an usher, and supported vital restoration projects as a member of the Capital Campaign Committee. His generosity and caring nature touched many lives.

Bill's final admonition was simple: take care of one another. A memorial service will be held at Saint John's Cathedral in Denver, Colorado, on Monday, March 10, at 1:00 p.m. Mountain Time, followed by interment and a reception at the church, where Bill will be remembered by those who knew him. Memorials may be made to the All Souls' Walk Columbarium Fund at Saint John's Cathedral, a cause close to his heart.

Donations can be sent to:

Saint John's Cathedral - Business Office

1350 N. Washington Street

Denver, CO 80203

Or if you prefer, you can give online at:

https://sjcathedral.org/give-2/ (Scroll down to the donate button).

Bill will be interred at All Souls' Walk at Saint John's Cathedral, with his Dean and dear friend, Richard Lawson (a fellow native of Guntersville, AL), officiating. A remembrance service will also be held in his hometown of Gadsden, AL, at a later date.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Make a Donation
in William Lambert's name

How to support William's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.

The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.

Read more
Attending a Funeral: What to Know

You have funeral questions, we have answers.

Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?

What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?

Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?

We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.

Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
Estate Settlement Guide

If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast

Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.

Read more
The Five Stages of Grief

They're not a map to follow, but simply a description of what people commonly feel.

Read more
Ways to honor William Lambert's life and legacy
Obituary Examples

You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.

Read more
How to Write an Obituary

Need help writing an obituary? Here's a step-by-step guide...

Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples

These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.

Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?

Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.

Read more

Sign William Lambert's Guest Book

Not sure what to say?