Duane Ray “Chile” Lambert, 75, of Bardstown, died Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, peacefully surrounded by his loved ones at the Sanders Ridge Health Campus where he had become somewhat of a local celebrity along with his beloved dog, Daisy.
He was one of those rare people that found the good in everyone and the fun in every day; he loved to laugh, travel, bet horses and play a good card game. He was a skilled talker who always had “one more story” to tell, which according to him, were always true. Above all, he cherished his relationship with God and was a devoted husband, loving father, and proud grandfather whose family was his greatest treasure.
He left his mark on this world with his jolly spirit and generous heart which will be remembered forever in every shared laugh and retold story. His love for life and people was his most endearing quality and his greatest blessing to everyone he met.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Ruth Igo; one son, Kenny Smith; one brother, Butch Lambert; and two sisters, Charlotte Westcott, Carol Childress.
He is survived by his wife, Frances Smith Lambert; two daughters, Trish (Scott) Spalding and Carrie (Alan) Hayden; three sons, Tony Lambert (Brandi Reece), Jerry (Anita) Smith, and Andy (Sandy) Smith; one brother, Donnie Lambert; 14 grandchildren; and six great-grandchildren.
The Celebration of Life service is 3:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at Barlow Funeral Home with Pastor Kevin Lutz officiating.
Visitation is 3-8 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 16, 2025, at the funeral home with cremation to follow.
Barlow Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.
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