Evelyn Ann Lambert, age 88, of Wamac, passed away peacefully at 12:02 PM on Saturday, January 11, 2025, at SSM Health St. Mary’s Hospital in Centralia.
Evelyn was born Friday, July 3, 1936, in Radom, Illinois, the daughter of John and Frances (Kwiatkowski) Niedbalski. She married the love of her life, Glenn Weston Lambert, on August 8, 1955 in Centralia. He preceded her in death on April 14, 2022. Together, they shared more than sixty-six years of marriage.
Evelyn is survived by her son- Herb Lambert of Centralia; daughter- Glennda “Sissy” (Mike) Runyon of Centralia; son- Steven Lambert of Centralia; son- Tony (Mary) Lambert of Summerfield; son- Todd (Mindy) Lambert of Salem; nine grandchildren- Dorsey (Diane) Snyder, Eric Snyder, Heather (Tony) Lambert, Blaine (Kim) Lambert, Ryan Lambert, Destiny Noffke, Blaise Lambert, Grayson Lambert, and Malia Lambert; several step-grandchildren including Billy (Raylee) Altom, Quinton (Sara) Runyon, and Mike Runyon; numerous great-grandchildren; one brother- Louis Niedbalski; and several nieces and nephews.
She is preceded in death by her parents, husband, three brothers- Alvin, Marion, and Marvin Niedbalski, and two sisters- Eleanor Beeman and Josie Crabtree.
Evelyn, affectionately known as “Ette”, was a devoted and creative soul. She spent her life nurturing her passions and serving her community. Ette’s professional life was marked by her talented hands and keen eye for detail. She worked as a seamstress and supervisor at Miss Elaine’s in Centralia, taking great pride in her craft. Her love for sewing, crafting, and painting brought joy to all who knew her. In her free time, Evelyn could often be found tending to her flowers and garden, working in her yard, or enjoying a game of bingo. Her annual trips to Las Vegas were always highly anticipated, and she loved to unwind with a good Danielle Steel novel or the sounds of country music. Ette was a devoted member of the Centralia Order of the Moose Lodge 1219, serving as Senior Regent for many years. She loved spending her evenings with her husband dancing every Saturday night at the lodge. Her faith was also an integral part of her life, teaching Sunday school at Wamac Baptist Church. Her creative spirit was evident in the adorable angel wings she crafted from crepe paper for her children for a Christmas play at church. Ette will be deeply missed by her family, friends, and community. Her legacy of love, creativity, and service will continue to inspire all who knew her.
Family and friends are invited to gather for visitation from 6:00 PM-7:30 PM on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home (134 S. Elm Street in Centralia).
Memorial services will be held at 7:30 PM on Thursday, January 16, 2025, at Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Centralia.
For those who prefer, memorial contributions may be directed to the Alzheimer’s Association. Envelopes will be available and accepted at the services or by mail to Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home; 134 S. Elm Street; Centralia, IL 62801.
Maxton-Rosado Funeral Home in Centralia is honored to have been called to serve the family. To leave an online condolence please visit www.maxtonrosado.com or call 618-532-7321 for more information.
