Steele J Lightbody

Please join us at the Thomas Funeral Home, 45 Common Street, Walpole on Saturday, October 12, 2024 from 9:00am to 11:00am followed by a Funeral Service at South Walpole United Methodist Church, 1886 Washington Street at 12:00 noon.  Interment will be private. 

Please, at the family's request, in lieu of flowers please donate to https://www.pinestreetinn.org/

Steele J Lightbody, a treasured soul whose laughter and kindness warmed the hearts of all who knew him, passed away peacefully on September 22, 2024, in his beloved hometown of Walpole, MA. Born on October 11, 1948, Steele's life was a testament to service, family, and passion.

Steele was the devoted husband of Mary Jane (Fraser) Lightbody, with whom he shared 44 fun years of marriage filled with love and unwavering partnership. A devoted father, his legacy continues through his children: Eric Lightbody and his wife Kristin, Jason Lightbody and his wife Julie, Daniel Sullivan, and Kerin Beauchamp, along with her husband Paul. He exuded pride in his role as a loving "Pop" to Samuel, Catherine, Jack, Colin, Abigail, Dillon, Kristoff, and Kayah, who filled his days with laughter and purpose.

A brother in both blood and spirit, Steele is fondly remembered by his siblings John LeRoy Lightbody, David Lightbody, Frank Lightbody, and Susan Peet, whose shared memories echo a lifetime of familial devotion. A proud graduate of Walpole High School's class of 1966, he led as Class President, setting the tone for a life marked by leadership and community involvement.
 

Steele's professional life was dedicated to the safety and well-being of his community; as Walpole's first full-time fireman, he bravely served the Walpole Fire Department, rising to the rank of Captain before retiring after an honorable 35-year career. Parallel to his service, he managed Lightbody Electric, showcasing his skill as an electrical contractor. His entrepreneurial spirit further shined alongside his wife, Mary Jane, as they delved into the world of real estate from 2005 until 2015.

Before his admirable career in fire service, Steele served his country with distinction as a seaman in the U.S. Navy, a chapter of his life that instilled in him a profound sense of duty and patriotism. Steele's heart was equally invested in his community, contributing time and talent as a Senior High School Youth Group Leader through CMA Church in Foxboro. His commitment to service spanned international borders with mission trips to the Dominican Republic and Mexico, where he assisted in building churches and strengthened communities.

Steele pursued his interests with the same vigor he dedicated to his work and service. A craftsman at heart, he skillfully built barns and made his dream home on South Street with his own hands. His love for snowmobiling led him to explore the snowy expanses of New Hampshire and Maine. Driving over the Bridge to Maine was his gateway to Heaven. Steele lived his high school dream of owning a Corvette and, in a twist of fate, a lottery win allowed him to purchase a 2001 Corvette and join the Eastern Mass Corvette Club.

His time at All American Memory Care in Wrentham was highlighted by a grand visit from 25 corvettes, bringing joy to not only Steele but also fellow patients. The Walpole Fire Department paid him a tribute fitting for a man of his valor, allowing him to don his uniform and relive precious moments.

Steele's love of life was infectious, especially during the countless special events he hosted, from Halloween hayrides to lively 4th of July celebrations. He cherished family above all, never missing an opportunity to support his grandchildren or open his home for grand celebrations. The Lightbody residence was a beacon of joy, laughter, and music, resonating with Steele's spirit of generosity and love. Every few years Steele and his wife Mary Jane would travel to Key West and spend time with each other.

A man who was never just a neighbor, Steele was the embodiment of love, kindness, and handiness. He was the fixer of broken things and hearts, a constant source of support and comfort for all. His legacy endures through the lives he touched, the family he adored, and the community he so faithfully served.

Steele J Lightbody's departure leaves a void that will be deeply felt, but his memory will endure as a vivid flame in the hearts of family, friends, and all who were fortunate enough to cross his path.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Steele J Lightbody, please visit our floral store.