WILLIAMSBURG — Robert “Bob” Leland Lambert, 86, died peacefully at his Williamsburg home on Tuesday, Oct. 27.

His legacy is an example of kindness, true gentlemanly conduct and lifelong learning. Alongside his wife Betty, remembrances of their generous helping hands abound in family and community, quietly behind the scenes.

Bob served as Scout Master of Franklin’s Troop 17 for nine years, where he led and motivated 16 young men to achieve their Eagle Scout. He was a class leader with The VMI Corp of Cadets and later helped the Class 1952 Alumni raise support. He loved both scouting and VMI values, tradition and fellow keydets.

After VMI and his service in the U.S. Army, Bob provided leadership for 40 years to Union Camp Paper Corporation beginning in Franklin, Virginia. His proudest project was planning and building the newest mill in Eastover, South Carolina, serving as the mill manager until he retired.

Bob loved his family first and was a teacher at heart. He loved sailing, golf, being out of doors, helping solve problems and helping negotiate between parties. He took a true interest in others’ success and would help them achieve it. He was known for always “doing the right thing” — a straight arrow.

He and Betty had a rare, true romance all the days of their lives and enjoyed longtime, good friends.

Bob’s family legacy includes his wife of 63 years, Betty Ruth Luck Lambert, who he met while in college; a daughter, Kay King (Dennis) of Richmond; a son, Robert L. Lambert Jr. (Betsy) of Yorktown and their children Sarah Hersh (Stephen) and Daniel Lambert. Also surviving is a sister, Joan Morgan (Harold) of Vicksburg, Mississippi.

Bob was preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Jeanette D. Lambert, and brother, Richard D. Lambert.

He was loved by his extended family and known to nieces and nephews sometimes as “Tricky Uncle Bob.”

The memorial service will be on Saturday, Oct. 31, at 11 a.m., in The Kingsmill Resort, 1010 Kingsmill Road, Williamsburg – Burwell Plantation Room, with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers, consider a remembrance gift to The VMI Foundation, www.vmiaa.org, or Colonial Virginia Council, http://www.cvcboyscouts.org.