"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.

Service Details

His Homegoing Service will be held in the New Omega Baptist Church, 5731 Northwestern Ave., on Wednesday, March 3 ^rd , 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