Sad news this afternoon as State Senator Benjamin Lambert III, a noted doctor and a long-serving member of the Virginia Senate known for his work to uplift and sustain Virginia’s historic black colleges passed away at the age of 77. From the RTD:
Lambert, a Democrat, was elected to the House of Delegates in 1977 after years of political and civic activism. In 1985, he was elected overwhelmingly to fill the state Senate seat vacated by L. Douglas Wilder after his election as lieutenant governor.
Senator Lambert was viciously attacked for having endorsed former Governor George Allen in 2006 because of Allen’s strong support for Virginia’s historic black colleges. Lambert was challenged and defeated by Don McEachin in 2007. Lambert’s political career was not over though, serving as vice chairman of the Governor’s Commission on Reform and Restructuring under Bob McDonnell.
Yet as a man of principle, Lambert had a strong reputation as an independent voice, doing what he thought was measured and right — whether that was during the civil rights era or in modern times. Lambert was known as a voice for conscience, silent when it was demanded and vocal when warranted.
Lambert is succeeded by four children and four grandchildren, all of whom should be very proud of a Virginia gentleman who broke both barriers and molds. Lambert was a true case of a man who succeeded in life and understood what profiles in courage cost, who understood that conscience comes at a cost, and the opprobrium of the moment no substitute for moral rectitude and the things that permanent, lasting, and good. I never had a chance to know Senator Lambert, but his reputation should stand as an example for what the Virginia Senate expects of her members, past and present.
Requiescat in pace, Senator Lambert.
UPDATE: Former Governor George Allen…
“Susan and I are terribly saddened by the passing of the truly Honorable Benny Lambert. Along with Ronald Reagan and Jack Kemp, Benny is one of the most exceptionally courageous, decent and inspirational people I ever had the honor to work with in public service.
“I am proud to have collaborated with Benny and many other teammates in business, education and governance to strengthen our Historically Black Colleges and Universities with better technology funding. Virginia and America are better because of Benny’s passion, commitment, and leadership for educating our young people.
“Susan and I feel blessed to have had Benny as a true friend. Our thoughts and prayers are with Benny’s wife Carolyn and their children and grandchildren. Heaven will have Benny’s always-cheerful demeanor lighting up hearts and we will continue to admire his principled example in life.”
The comparison with Jack Kemp is apt indeed — if there was a gentleman who believed in and lived opportunity, it was Senator Lambert.
…and is there truly any more fulsome praise to win in this world than to be called a decent person? A life well lived and a world made better because you existed? Well said.
