John Lamb attended the University of North Georgia for one year in 1946. Nearly 60 years later, he shared with UNG advancement staff Fred Link and Bruce Howerton, retired vice president for advancement, that that year was the "happiest time of his life."
Lamb died in December 2016 and left his entire estate, appraised at $4 million, to the UNG Foundation. The estate included 87 acres of land, a farm, more than 40 cattle, two donkeys, and two rabbits.
In his Will, Lamb appointed the UNG Foundation as the executor of his estate and left all of his property to the university to be used for capital improvements, including construction of new buildings, or acquisition and/or renovation of existing buildings.
"John’s generosity will be transformational to UNG," said Jeff Tarnowski, vice president for advancement. "The impact of his gift will be felt at UNG for generations to come."
Lamb transferred to University of Georgia after leaving UNG and earned a bachelor’s degree in agriculture. After he graduated, he commissioned as a 2nd lieutenant in the Army. He served two years active duty, including a 10-month tour in Korea as a tank platoon leader. He commanded and supervised 30 men and was honorably released at the end of his active duty tour as a 1st lieutenant.
Lamb’s post-military career included working as a livestock buyer with White Provision Packing Company in Atlanta, a sales representative for International Minerals and Chemical Corporation, and manager and operator of The Frontier Meat Company in Buford.
