Obituary: Karen Lambert
It is with profound sadness and a deep sense of loss that we announce the passing of Karen S. Lambert, a cherished educator, devoted community leader, and beloved member of Toone, Tennessee. Born on October 30, 1953, in Jackson, Tennessee, Karen’s journey of seventy-two years came to a peaceful close on April 23, 2026, in Bolivar, Tennessee.
Karen’s life was a testament to dedication and service, particularly in the realm of education. For over thirty-five years, she graced the halls of Toone Elementary as a teacher, facilitator, and principal, shaping countless young minds with her wisdom and compassion before retiring in 2009. Early in her career, she also imparted knowledge during a year of teaching in Florida, underscoring her commitment to education wherever opportunity called.
Beyond the classroom, Karen’s vibrant spirit enriched the community of Toone in myriad ways. She served with distinction as an Alderman, playing a pivotal role in securing the grant that revitalized Toone Park, a legacy that continues to benefit the town’s residents. Her passion for history and heritage found expression in her role as registrar of the Hatchie Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution and in her active engagement with genealogy. A creative soul, Karen was enamored with arts and crafts, devoting time to scrapbooking and quilting, and generously shared her talents through volunteering with school plays at Toone Elementary.
Karen’s unwavering faith was central to her life. A devoted member of Toone Baptist Church, she enriched worship as both pianist and organist, her music weaving comfort and joy through the congregation.
Karen’s presence will be deeply missed by her beloved daughters—Melissa Hazelwood, (Bo) and Ashley Zawacki, (Ryan)—all of Toone—and her son, Stephen Lambert of Toone. She was a proud grandmother to Will, Tate, and Harper, who carry forward her loving spirit. Karen is also remembered fondly by several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles. She was preceded in death on April 1, 2017, by her beloved husband, Johnny Lambert, whom she married on December 1, 1972; her parents, A.E. Smith and Nancy Jones Smith; and her sister, Susan Stack.
The community was invited to gather in honor of Karen’s remarkable life at the Toone Baptist Church, located at 20 Keller Street, Toone, TN 38381. Visitation was held on April 26, 2026, from 1:30 p.m. to 3:00 p.m., followed immediately by the funeral service from 3:00 p.m. until 3:45 p.m. The interment took place at Rainey Cemetery, 2995 Naylor Road, Toone, TN 38381.
As we bid farewell to Karen S. Lambert, we remembered a life rich in service, creativity, and faith—a life that touched the hearts of many and left an indelible mark on the community she so dearly loved. Her legacy endures in the lives she shaped and the memories she leaves behind.
Courtesy of Shackelford Funeral Directors, Bolivar, Tennessee.
Read more obituaries by clicking here.
Stay informed on what’s happening in Hardeman County by following Hatchie Press on Facebook and subscribing to Hatchie Press e-mail updates.
