Odell Lightner

ODELL LIGHTNER, SR., (the ‘Legend’) was born in Blackstocks, South Carolina on May 3, 1939 to James Allen Lightner and Sarah Ann Jordan Lightner. Odell was called home to be with the Lord on May 31, 2006. He gave his life to Christ and was baptized at Red Hill Baptist Church in Woodward, S.C. at a very early age.Odell was educated in the Fairfield County, South Carolina school system. On November 10, 1964, he was joined in holy matrimony to the love of his life and life long partner, Carolyn J. Lightner. They raised their children in the fear of God. Odell Lightner, Jr., Chester Davis and Sandra L. Goodwin (who affectionately called him “father cantaloupe”). He had a special bond with grandchildren Vanessa Goodwin, Sherice and Annastasia Lightner.Odell worked at the Sweetheart Cup Company for 39 years. While employed there, he did carpentry and gardening side jobs in the Ashburton Community. Prior to being employed at the Sweetheart Cup Company, he served in the United States Army, where he received an honorable discharge. He was also trained to serve as a volunteer fire fighter.He enjoyed singing gospel songs, playing checkers and cards, fishing, carpentry, cooking and riding his bicycle. His best friend was his brother, Jesse Lightner, with whom he spent hours with everyday. Johns Hopkins Hospital and the surrounding community payed tribute to their love for the game of checkers by painting a Muriel (which is displayed at Chase and McDonald Streets) of Odell, Jesse and the members of the “Checkers Club” which they formed. Odell loved being with family especially at the family reunions. He loved to tell the story about him and his father planting 7 acres of corn.He is survived by his wife, Minister Carolyn J. Lightner; three children, Sandra L. Goodwin, Odell Lightner, Jr. and Chester Davis; nine grandchildren; four great-grands; a mother-in-law, Ora M. Lewis; one brother, Jesse j. Lightner; three sisters, Hattie Lewis, Sarah Robinson and Flora Lightner; six brothers-in-law; four sisters-in-law; two daughters-in-law and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins and friends.

Tributes

Odell Lightner

May 3, 1939 - May 31, 2006