Arthur Lee Lightsey

Arthur Lee Lightsey of Watkinsville, completed his earthly journey peacefully at home surrounded by his family on November 16, 2022.

"Art" was born March 15, 1934 to Perry and Mildred Aspinwall Lightsey in Odum, Georgia. Mr. Lightsey leaves behind his wife of 62 years, Annette Aderhold Lightsey, a daughter Lynn Lightsey (David) Smith, and a son Michael G. (Cristin) Lightsey. Four (4) grandchildren, Laura Leigh (Rex) Richardson, Chris (Kasi) Smith, Ryan and Brendan Lightsey. Three (3) great-grandchildren, Bennett, Butler and John David Richardson. Siblings include sisters Velma Ruth Griffin, Linda (Aaron) Hutcheson and brother John (Marty) Fowler, as well as many nieces and nephews spanning several generations.

He was preceded in death by his father, Perry Lightsey, his mother, Mildred Aspinwall Lightsey Fowler and sister Dorothy Lightsey Sharpe McBride.

Art had a heart for leading and assisting others. He enjoyed spending time with his family, serving in his church and community, as well as spending time in the outdoors hunting and fishing.

He valued education and the opportunities it offers. He was a graduate of Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College ('54), University of Georgia ('56), and obtained a law degree from the Woodrow Wilson School of Law ('70).

Art served in the in the military as a member of the Georgia National Guard. He started his career working for the USDA and the Georgia Kraft Company. He then settled in with the Georgia Power Company in 1964 in their Land Department. During his twenty-five (25) year tenure, he held several positions, including being heavily involved in the development of Lake Oconee in the 1970s. Art retired in 1989 as the manager of Land Management Division.

Post-retirement, he stayed busy, becoming an independent real estate appraiser, operating a self-storage facility, traveling to watch his grandchildren play sports, as well as serving with Grace Fellowship Church in Greensboro, GA as a charter member.

We would like to thank several special caregivers who developed wonderful relationships with the family. Amanda Ryder, Rosetta Kelley, Leslie Watts, Annie Arnold, Ann Merritt, Lakesha Watkins, Cynthia Lester, Sherry Bostic, Deasa Canaday & Ruby Sewell.

McDonald & Son Funeral Home in Cumming is in charge of arrangements. A Celebration of Life will be held at a later date yet to be determined.

In lieu of flowers or gifts, it is requested to consider a donation to the Wears Valley Ranch (Sevierville, TN), an organization that provides Christian homes, education, and counseling for children in crisis. Art spent time on campus over the years, assisting in the upkeep of the ranch property.

https://wvr.org/arthur-lightsey-memorial/