Gene A. Lam

In Loving Memory of Gene Allen Lam January 10, 1938 - November 3, 2025, Arlington, Texas

Gene Allen Lam, 87, a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and gifted architect, passed away peacefully on November 3, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas. Born in Dallas on January 10, 1938, Gene's early years were rooted in North Texas. He moved to Arlington in the fifth grade, where he began a lifelong love for his hometown and its people.

A 1956 graduate of Arlington High School, Gene was in the High School Band. He continued his studies at Texas Tech University, earning his degree in Architecture in 1961. Soon after, he spent three and a half years in the US Army. He then worked for an Architectural firm in London for a year.

On February 18, 1966, Gene married the love of his life, Maudie Kay. They met, fell in love, and were married just six months later-a joyful beginning to a marriage marked by steadfast devotion, humor, and grace. Together they built a home where family and friends gathered often, especially on Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas, creating traditions and memories that will be cherished for generations.

Gene was part of the founding of Wharton & Lam Architects, which later became LBL Architects. He invested his time and talents in the Arlington community, designing buildings and mentoring others along the way. Gene loved to study architecture-he never stopped noticing lines, light, and the purpose of good design.

Gene's gifts extended far beyond the drafting table. He was a talented pianist who brought warmth to family gatherings. He had a playful spirit and a dry sense of humor; he was a jokester who could relate to any age and make everyone feel at ease. Everyone looked forward to playing games at the Lam household, especially Trouble, Checkers, and Monopoly. He loved snow skiing, taking his last ski trip at age 81. And he especially enjoyed pecan pie and popcorn. He was a loyal fan of the Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys.

Faith in God anchored Gene's life. He and Maudie were longtime members of Bethesda Community Church, where Gene served on the board and invested deeply in the church family. He and his wife were currently attending Gateway. His compassion reached widely into the community through the Boys & Girls Club, Mission Arlington, and the Calvary Commission Prison Ministry. Gene and Maudie believed in and practiced love, grace, and second chances.

Steady, constant, loving and firm when needed, Gene was the quiet strength of his family. He led with kindness and humility, and he loved deeply.

Preceded in death by: his parents, Claude D. Lam and Mary Etta Lam; and his brothers, Gerald Lam and Elvis Lam.

Survived by: his beloved wife, Maudie Lam; daughter, Kimberly Tooley; son, Jason Lam and wife Loretta; sister, Dana Armour; grandchildren, Justin Lam, Andrew Lam, Caitlin Lam, Madison Niles, Austin Tooley, Jay Nappier and James Nappier; and 18 great-grandchildren, who will carry forward his legacy of laughter, music, and love.

Service Information

Funeral service: Monday, November 17, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Wade Funeral Home. Graveside service: 1:00 p.m. at Dallas-Fort Worth National Cemetery.

Memorial Contributions

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Mission Arlington or the Boys & Girls Club.

Gene's legacy lives on in the family he adored, the faith he lived, and the buildings and friendships that will continue to bless the Arlington community for years to come. He will be profoundly missed and lovingly remembered.