Clarence Lampkin-10-17-2026

Clarence Lampkin, affectionately known as “Zeke,” was born on August 4, 1944, in Margaretta, Florida, to the late Annie Maude Smith and Clyde Lampkin. On Saturday, October 3, 2026, God called him home from his earthly labors to eternal rest.

Zeke spent much of his early life in Florida, where he attended schools in the Orlando public school system and Jones High School, where he learned the skills of a mechanic. A talented and resourceful man, he had a natural ability to work with his hands and turn his skills into something special.

In 1964, Zeke relocated to Lakewood, New Jersey, where he continued his education and graduated from Lakewood High School in 1965. A gifted athlete with a special love for football, he earned a place on the 1965 All-Shore Football Team, an accomplishment he carried with pride. In Lakewood, he built a life filled with family, friendship, laughter, and countless unforgettable memories.

Zeke was also a skilled craftsman who took great pride in his work. He worked for Beaton Brothers Flooring for numerous years before venturing out on his own as a hardwood flooring craftsman. His work was more than a trade; it was an art. Every floor he completed was a masterpiece, reflecting the pride, skill, and attention to detail he brought to his craft.

Music was another passion. A self-taught musician, Zeke played drums in a band and especially enjoyed listening to Johnnie Taylor. He was also a history buff, movie lover, and avid fisherman, with a genuine curiosity about the world around him.

Beyond his many talents, Zeke was a passionate card player who was always ready for a game of Spades. Whenever he and his brother teamed up at the table, their legendary chemistry earned them the affectionate nickname of 'Batman and Robin'—a dynamic duo that few could ever defeat. Charismatic, charming, funny, and witty, Zeke had a gift for storytelling and a sense of humor that could bring life to any room. Whether sharing a story, discussing history or movies, listening to music, or simply making someone laugh, he had a way of making every conversation memorable. He was truly one of a kind, and his presence will be deeply missed.

Zeke was preceded in death by his wife, Lucy Lampkin; his children, Sharon Hollins, Deon Lampkin, and Johnny Lampkin; his brothers, Charlie Lampkin and Sylvester Lampkin; and his sister, Nellie Allen.

He leaves to cherish his memory his children, Stephanie Lampkin, Wendy Jones (Lamont), Verendette Brown, and Nigel Lampkin;, Leon Kelly, LaToya Kelly; his brothers, Jesse (Pearl), Joe (Aretha), and Ernest (Sis); his sisters, Carrie, Gloria (James), Linda, Patty, and Stacey (Martin); and a host of grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family, and dear friends.

Zeke Lampkin lived a life filled with talent, laughter, and unforgettable stories. He was an athlete, mechanic, craftsman, musician, history buff, movie lover, fisherman, and storyteller—but above all, he was simply Zeke. Though he has left this earthly life, his laughter, music, craftsmanship, charm, and memories will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.

Rest in Peace, Zeke. Your story will continue to be told.