Carroll Ray Lambert, 68, of Robbinsville NC, died Wednesday, April 25, 2012, from injuries sustained in an accident.

Carroll was born on April 15, 1944, in Swain County and attended Swain County High School.  He was a retired boiler-maker/welder but stayed active in various church and community activities.  

He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years, Anona Rattler Lambert; sons Jimmy Lambert (Cindy) of Bryson City; Ray (Lashaun) of Robbinsville, daughter Crystal (Phillip) Ellington of Robbinsville; stepsons Alan (Eve) and Don (Carolyn) Chekelelee of Robbinsville, Eddie (Susan) Chekelelee of Murphy, and stepdaughter Tammie Chekelelee of Robbinsville.  He is also survived by a sister, Brenda Grady of Raleigh, and 30 grandchildren, 12 great-grandchildren and numerous nieces and nephews.  He leaves behind many broken hearts.

He was predeceased by his father, Hartman Lambert, stepfather Emery Wiggins, mother Bessie McCoy Wiggins, brothers J. D. and Bill Lambert and Earl Wiggins, and a granddaughter Destinee Ellington.  

Carroll was a longtime member of Buffalo Baptist Church in Robbinsville where he taught Sunday school, served as choir leader and wherever he was needed.  

Carroll loved horseback riding, camping, gardening, tinkering, and he especially enjoyed gatherings with family and friends.  His life was a journey of faith and he lived to the fullest his allotted time here.  Carroll’s caring and generous spirit will be remembered by many and he will be deeply missed.

Visitation will be at Buffalo Baptist Church on Saturday, April 28, beginning at 6:00 and funeral services will be at the church on Sunday, April 29 at 1:00 with burial at the family cemetery. The Rev. Jimmy Lambert and the Rev. John Ward will officiate.

Crisp Funeral Home of Bryson City is in charge of arrangements.