Trending
NILES -- Lester L. Lightner, 97, passed away peacefully, Monday morning, Feb. 24, 2025, at his home.
He was born in Brent, Lawrence County, Pa., on Feb. 6, 1928, the son of Ivan and Davina Williamson Lightner.
Lester was a 1946 graduate of Liberty High School and honorably served in the United States Army as a corporal in the 8th Army headquarters in Japan. Following his service, he graduated from ATES and ICS drafting in tool design.
His career began with Miele Engineering, where he was a draftsman and checker, followed by work at Brainard Strapping, where he was a development engineer and tool designer. He retired in 1994 as a project engineer with 19 years of service from Copperweld Steel Company.
He was a past member of the Association of Iron and Steel Engineers, AISE.
Lester married the love of his life, Ann P. Panfile, on Aug. 16, 1963, in United Presbyterian Church of New Bedford, Pa., by the Rev. Fred J. Lenk. He joined First Baptist Church of Niles in 1966, serving as chairman of the trustee board, as a financial secretary and as an usher.
He relocated to Christ Memorial Baptist Church of Warren in 1978, where he served as an usher and was a member of Pastor's Prayer Partners.
He is survived by many nieces and nephews.
Lester was preceded in death by his wife, Ann P. Panfile Lightner, who passed away July 22, 2013; son, Gary William Lightner, who died Nov. 4, 2003; brother, Harold Lightner; and sister, Betty Walter.
The funeral will be 11 a.m. Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Holeton-Yuhasz Funeral Home, where family and friends may call one hour prior to the service. The Rev. G. Ben Reed will officiate.
A private burial will be in Kerr Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to First Baptist Church, 26 E. Church St., Niles, OH 44446.
Visit holetonyuhasz.com to view this tribute and share condolences.
(special notice)