Born, December 29, 1938 to Richard and Lurlen Lightner in South Fulton, Kentucky. Bobby had 7 brothers; James, Soa Lee, Lowell, Elvin, Otis, Richard Jr, Harry and one sister whom was deceased at birth. At the age of 17, Bobby enlisted in the United States Navy where he was stationed in Long Beach, California during the Vietnam War. He received numerous medal awards and accolades for his outstanding performance in the military service.

Bobby was an entrepreneur where he owned, operated and managed Lightner Auto Detail for over 40 years. His attributes and contributions went without notice. He inspired many to following his footsteps as his hard work and dedication paid off.

Bobby’s passion and interest was spending time with family, traveling, jazz and blues music, playing cards and rolling a little dice to make his day. He loved
watching and attending football and basketball games, boxing, wrestling, and drag racing. His favorite pastime was going to the drag racing events every Sunday with his children, watching the airplanes take off or grabbing a bite to eat at A&W Root Beer.

Mostly, if you were trying to have a long conversation with him, your time was up in 10 minutes as that is how long you had to make your point. He loved short talk.

Bobby was an amazing father, uncle, brother, friend and a true soldier and warrior until the end. He was fun loving, kind, would give you his last dollar and clothes off his back. His loving kindness showed to many of how much he cared for others. (John: Chapter 15:12)

On Sunday, October 24, 2021 at 5:18 a.m., Bobby Joe Lightner Sr. met his master and was taken to glory.

Bobby was survived by his wife, Mary Harris, daughters, Gloria Lightner and Debra Price, sons, Bobby Joe Lightner Jr., Rodrick Lightner and Ruben Lightner (late), stepchildren, Kelly Harris, Tony Harris and Terry Harris, 14 grandchildren, 2 great grandchildren and a host of nieces and nephews and close friends who knew him well.

Please use the following link to view the live streamed service: https://www.thwconline.com/bobby-lightner-sr
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