Charles Grant Lambert

Charles Grant “Chuck” Lambert of Bluefield, WV has finally taken a well-earned timeout. Born February 13, 1932, Chuck came from humble beginnings. But, his grit, tenacity, hustle, and basketball prowess opened doors for him.

As standout at Kermit High, his coach referred to him as the “best little quarterback on a basketball court I ever saw.” Chuck served in the U.S. Navy, played basketball while getting his B.S. degree in Education at Concord College, and later received his M.S. in Education from NC A&T University.

Chuck was a teacher and coach who left his mark on the gyms and halls of southern West Virginia and Virginia. He coached at Bramwell, Hopewell, Bluefield, Pocahontas, and Montcalm High Schools, and later at Concord and Bluefield State Colleges. Generations of students still call him “Coach.” Players remember his endless drills, demand for respect, and attention to detail.

Chuck could build or fix anything—from basketball plays to broken furniture to your attitude if it needed adjusting. A talented carpenter, an avid golfer, a history buff, and pound-for-pound one of the toughest guys you’ll ever meet, Chuck was a man of grit, steely resolve, and a touch of stubborn genius.

But, he also had a big heart—especially when it came to his daughter and grandchildren, and his dogs, including Lucky, his beloved hound who misses him terribly.

Chuck is survived by his sister, Hattie Terry, and his children: Charles Keith, Jill (children Kate and Eric), and Jason. He was preceded in death by his mother, Lelia Miller, and his nephew, James Miller.

A service will be held at First Presbyterian Church in Bluefield, WV on August 22, 2025 at 4pm with a reception to follow. Chuck will be interred at Woodlawn Cemetery. Honorary pallbearers will include the basketball players from his former teams—those who survived his drills and lived to tell the tale.

The family would like to thank his caregivers, Tiffany and Brandi, who supported him during his recent illness.

Chuck left us with memories, lessons, and a few unfinished projects in the garage. He’ll be fondly remembered as a coach who deeply loved his players.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to the First Presbyterian Church of Bluefield or the Mercer County Animal Shelter. Or, better yet, go fix something, teach someone, or just yell encouragement (or mild criticism) from the sidelines in his honor.