Service Details
His Homegoing Service will be held in the New Omega Baptist Church, 5731 Northwestern Ave., on Wednesday, March 3rd, at 11:00 a.m. with his Pastor, Daryn D. Crenshaw officiating. Visitation will be in the church that day from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service. The Masonic Service will begin the services at 11:00 a.m., Private burial will follow in Graceland Cemetery.
Memorial Suggestions
In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the Light Family Scholarship Fund. Checks should be made out to THE UNITY GRAND FOUNDATION (SCHOLARSHIP) and mailed to P.O. Box 240876, Milwaukee, WI 53224
“To Whom Much Is Given, Much Will Be Required” Luke 12:48
When asking for a phrase that could describe their father, the youngest daughter Jodi replied, “My Dad was a strong Black Man with a heart of gold. He loved to give to anyone who was in need.” That phrase clearly represented the common thread woven throughout the life of this phenomenal human being. The Man was Joseph Light Jr. JOSEPH ROBERT LIGHT JR. entered this world as the youngest child, born to June and Joseph Light Sr. on August 7th, 1927, in Marion, Illinois. While still living in Illinois, he attended the Southern Illinois University at Carbondale, on a Band scholarship as a trombonist. Years later Joe met and married his beloved Pearl Bernice Robb on August 16th, 1953. Together they had 4 children: Michael, Steven, June and Jodi. June described their father as “Always Present.” Steven stated, “He was just Daddy and he always made us feel safe.” Yes, caring for the needs of his family was of the utmost importance to him. Yet, that common thread of support was also extended to others. When he wasn’t actively at home or at work at S.C.Johnson Wax, he was involved in supporting the community. Joe participated in a plethora of substantial organizations and committees: Big Brothers Big Sisters; Big 20 Social Club; Civil Service Selection Committee; Salvation Army Advisory Committee; Toys for Tots; Urban League; N.A.A.C.P. and Habitat for Humanity. Joseph Light Jr. was a Master Mason and member of Southgate Lodge#6. He was also a member of Ionic Consistory#70. In 1988 Joseph was elevated to the 33rd, the last degree in Masonry. Furthermore, he was a Prince Hall Shriner of Zembo Temple #70 and Past President of the Racine PH Shrine Club. His church membership was with Christ’s Community Church, under the leadership of Pastor Daryn Crenshaw. Notably, Joe was the 2nd Black Alderman in the City of Racine. As if that wasn’t enough, together Joe and Pearl created “The Light Family Academic Scholarship” to assist deserving students with their educational expenses. Furthermore, during the Christmas season there was the “Light Foundation Annual Holiday Giveaway.” Even with all of those activities, somehow he found time to relax. On occasion, he would enjoy traveling and entertaining at his home. You could find him sitting back in his cozy chair tapping his toes to the tunes of Wes Montgomery, Ramsey Lewis Trio or Cannonball Adderly, while slowly sipping his Southern Comfort on the rocks. As Jodi would say,”He was Cool.” There are many remaining who will smile when remembering Joseph. Among those who will cherish his memory are his children: Michael (Cassandra) Light of Racine, WI; Steven Light of St. Louis, MO; June (Dwight) Light-Stovall of Milwaukee, WI; Jodi (Steven) Light-Suggs of Minneapolis, MN; Robert Light of Kenosha, WI; daughter in-law, Marlene Light of Dallas, TX; and grandchildren: Laurencetta Sanders; Melanie Light; Kimberly Light; Maurice Light; David Light; Cory Light; April Holmes; Dr. Sharee Light; Renisha Light; Nadine Light; Brittany Light; Steven Light Jr.; Reina Stovall and Katie Light. He is also leaving special memories with his “Brother” Leroy Wooley and special companion Odester Day. Other family members include several nieces and nephews. People of all ages and backgrounds will readily reflect on their most memorable moments with Joseph. Joseph was preceded in death by his beautiful beloved wife: Pearl Bernice; Sons: Leon Light; Joseph Earl Light; Phillip Light and William Light; Grandson: Eric Light; Parents: June and Joseph Light Sr.; Sisters: Sametta Malone, Carrie Payton, Nellie Ellis and Brother: Hosea Payton.
Lynn Booker says
Our prayers and condolences to the Family may God give you strength and comfort in the days to come. 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽
The Booker Family
Ronald Huggins says
Joe was what a man should try to be like. Work hard, accumulate as much you can and always be willing to share. .He is survived by a beautiful family and many of friends. He will be missed by all of Racine.🙏🏼❤️
Jozell and Jimmy Davies says
So sorry for your loss. Our sincere condolences and prayers for the Light family. 🙏
JodieReams Sr says
Condolences to the family.
Mr & Mrs Jodie L Reams
Tom Chernouski says
Sincere condolences to the family! Worked a few years for Joe at the Wax. Always willing to help anyone. Many good memories with Joe.
Great guy and really a good person! May God Bless! RIP Joe!
John and Deborah Herrem says
Heartfelt sympathy and prayers sent to Joe’s family. We are so sorry for your loss.
Richard Mc Gee says
I would like to say to the family that you have my deepest sympathy and for you all to carry on the legacy of your loved one. I enjoyed the times I had talking with him when I ran into him at a bar and we would call each other Top Cat for fun. I’ll always remember him as he Rest In Peace 🙏🏾
Joyce Shelton-Smith says
Sorry for your loss. RIP
Vivian “DeeDee” Scales says
To the Light Family
You all are in my thoughts and prayers.
Demeterius Powell says
Jodie I’m sorry for your lost of your Father may GOD BLESS you and strength you during this difficult Time in your life may joseph RIP
Val Tucker says
My Condolences and prayers for the family in lost of father Humanitarian You will be truly be missed. Valencia Davidson Tucker
The Matt/Harris families says
Mr. light, you will be deeply missed. May you Rest In Peace.
Thomas Jones says
Mr. Light was great man in our community. I am saddened by his loss.
Lillian Boykin and family says
My deepest condolences too the family he will be missed 🙏
Erma Ford, MSPB says
My thoughts and prayers 🙏🏽 are with you Jodi and your family. GOD blessed you with a good BLACK father and wonderful memories.
Linda Pierce Tyler and family says
To the Light family I’m sending you condolences, and prayers. Thank Mr. Light for always smiling and a caring person. Because of you I love building things in my backyard. Rest on and tell Mrs. Light hello from Linda Ruth .
Pervis Lee says
Jodi – your family is in our prayers. I sincerely pray that your grief will last only a moment and that your memories will last forever.
Janice (Kirby) Bond & Family says
To the Light Family, May God keep you in his arms and comfort you. I remember both parents, Joseph and Pearl smiling on their wedding day. My older sister and I were the flower girls. While my mother was making the wedding dress, I kept thinking I want that dress. ( I was only six at the time). Love to all and God Bless.
Andrea M. Dabbs says
🙏😇❤ Sending my love too you Family, “This is a bittersweet time, “sad my uncle Joe physical body is gone but thankful he not suffering, ‘you will definitely be missed !!! Thank you for being an awesome Uncle, your love for our family will always be appreciated. Let my Parents and my aunt Pearl know I miss them so much but I’m happy y’all back together 🤗❤,
Dorothy L Tillman-Wright says
To the Light family from theTillman family we’re so sorry for the loss of your love one!Our prayers are with all of you in this time of sorrow. God give you peace!
Jennifer Y Jones - STL WFA says
My deepest sympath goes out to Steven and entire family on the loss of your Father. May God give you strength. Praying for you .
Lolita Moody says
Sadden to hear. Always remember his beautiful smile and welcoming demeanor. He will definitely be missed.
Christine Golden says
RIH Mr. Light you’re truly going to be missed From the family of Ms. Christine Golden
Sheila Stephens Grandy says
My deepest condolences to the Light family, Mr.Light was truly a gentle man and always willing to help everyone. He loved to smile, you would never see a frown on his face. He will be remembered by many. Praying for his family, 🙏
Sherry-Booker Tyler and family Hinesville Ga. says
Sending our love and condolences to the Light Family.
Gale & Ethel Booker says
Our thoughts love and prayers to the Light family.
Anonymous says
My deepest condolences to the family🙏🏿❤️
Delores “Dee” Whitnell Hervey says
To the Light family from the Whitnell family. We love you and pray that you always remember the light your dad shined on you and others.
Dee Whitnell Hervey and family says
Mr. Light was a man of standard. Simply a class act. So dear family and friends smile because he let his light shine.
Anonymous says
My deepest condolences to the entire Light family. Mr. light was a wonderful friend always ready to help others in need. He will be missed.
Ramona Hadley says
To the Light Family:
I’m so sorry to hear about the loss of Mr. Light. He truly was an extraordinary man. I pray that you are given strength during this time of great sorrow and are comforted by your precious memories. My deepest condolences to your family.
Phyllis Stills-Cannon Family. says
My condolences to your family.
Sandra "Kay" Exum & Family says
Our thoughts and prayers are with you. Although this is a difficult time, take comfort in your memories of a good man.
Donnie & Sylvia Gardner says
Prayers Lifted for the entire family. He has left a beautiful legacy to cherish. May God grant peace and comfort during this sorrowful time. 🙏
Kim Bartz says
Jodi you and your family are in my prayers. Love you my friend.
Jill Victoria says
Praying for your family during this difficult time🙏🙏 My thoughts are with his family.
Anonymous says
Prayer’s and condolence to the light family, Joe will be missed
Kenneth Lumpkin
Greg and Maydell Williams (Williams & Billups families) says
Our condolences to the Light family. Mr. Light can finally rest as he continues to watch over you. What a great but busy gentleman.
Vickie says
So sorry for your loss Jodi. We were so lucky to have met your dad. What an amazing man.
Love, Al & Vickie
The Cotton Family says
Prayers and condolences to the family.
Annette Powell & Family says
To Jodi & The Light Family:
We are so sorry to hear about the loss of your dad. He was a good friend and Mason brother to my dad( the late Howard Powell). we are sending prayers and love to comfort and strengthen during this time. May God Bless the Family.
Annette Powell & Family
Houston, TX
Therita Bogan Harris says
June and Jodie you have my deepest sympathy in the loss of your Dad.
Maggie Cobb says
My heart goes out to the family.Your father was a servant of the people .He found a need gave his all . What a legacy he leaves . May your memories comfort you during this difficult time.
Cynthia Graham Aaron says
I use to live many years ago, 1970 with my aunt Frances and uncle Hosea at 1301 9th St. I did not know that “Brother” had
passed, Sammetta, Earl, Leon, Phillip. Your grandmother, Ms. June, your dad and your mom, Pearl were such nice people.
I am originally from Va. but retired to Fllorence, SC.
Kimberly Lee says
Light Family-
My deepest condolences to you and the family.
May God continue to guide you through this challenging time.
God Bless –
Lee Family