Mildred Mary Lambert

Millie Lambert, a beloved Sister, Aunt, Board President for the KEA, friend, and respected educator, passed away peacefully on August 27, 2024, at the age of 75. Millie’s vibrant presence and unwavering dedication to education profoundly impacted countless lives throughout her remarkable career and life.

Millie is survived by her sister Ann Walker; niece Mari Bryant; Niece Lindsay (John) Osborn; great-nieces Cadence and Gabriella Osborn; and great-nephews Owen and Isaac Osborn. She is also fondly remembered by her colleagues and friends who became family, all of whom were touched by her extraordinary spirit. 

She was preceded in death by her parents, Gabrielle and Earl Lambert.

Born on February 5, 1949, in Grand Rapids, MI, she graduated from Kentwood High School and later from WMU. Millie was renowned for her love of music, lifelong friendships, and exemplary career in education. Millie began her professional career as an elementary teacher in Kalamazoo Public Schools and taught many grades throughout the system. She was a local leader in her roles with KEA and MEA. Millie represented the Kalamazoo teachers for many years as President of the Kalamazoo Education Association (KEA), in Michigan at the State and National levels. Millie was a coordinating council leader for her region. She also served as a representative for the KEA as an Urban Educator on NCUEA, as a Board member of the MEA, and as a delegate to the NEA for decades. In each of these roles, Millie helped to move the benchmarks for public education and advocacy for children and the staff who serve our children across the nation. Millie would often begin conversations with trusted educators with the expression, “What is the right thing to do?” Her career, dedication to many non-profit organizations, and deep appreciation for the arts and music enriched her life and those around her. Millie had a unique ability to find joy and wonder in everyday moments, inspiring others to do the same.

Millie’s life will be celebrated on September 25th, 2024, from 3-9:00 PM at Langeland Family Funeral Homes Burial and Cremation Services, 3926 S 9th St, Kalamazoo, MI 49009.

Millie will be buried Thursday, September 26th at 2:00 PM at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, 2894 Patterson Ave SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49512.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to one of the following organizations dear to Millie - League of Women Voters, Kalamazoo Loaves and Fishes, or Animal Rescue Project.

Millie’s light will continue to shine in the hearts of those who knew her, and her spirit will be a guiding force in the lives she touched.

To share a memory or leave a condolence for the family visit https://www.langelands.com.