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Harry Lightsey Jr.

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Dreher High School Clemson University College of Charleston Converse University University of Georgia Winthrop University

FUNERAL HOME

Dunbar Funeral Home - Devine

3926 Devine St

Columbia, South Carolina

Harry Lightsey Obituary

LIGHTSEY, JR., Harry COLUMBIA - Dr. Harry McKinley Lightsey, Jr., beloved husband, father, and grandfather, died on Sunday, January 15, 2006. Dr. Lightsey was born on December 27, 1931, in Columbia, South Carolina, the son of Harry McKinley Lightsey and Ellen Glenn Lightsey. He attended public schools in Columbia and graduated from Dreher High School, at the age of sixteen, in 1948. He then attended Clemson University, where he was elected Student Body President in his senior year and graduated cum laude in 1952. He married Kathleen Exia Kay, the love of his life, on June 14, 1952, and together they enjoyed over 53 years of a true partnership in marriage. Following his graduation from Clemson and his wedding to Kathleen, he pursued graduate study at the University of Georgia, and there received a Doctorate of Veterinary Medicine, cum laude, in 1956. He practiced veterinary medicine in Allendale, South Carolina, until 1958, when he returned to Columbia to study law at the University of South Carolina School of Law. He made straight A's during his entire three years of law school a feat unmatched until recent years and was the Editor of the Law Review, Chief Justice of the Wig and Robe Honorary Law Scholastic Society, Captain of the Moot Court Team, and Quarter-Finalist in the National Moot Court Competition. In 1961 he was awarded his J.D. Degree, graduating summa cum laude, Outstanding Law School Graduate, and First Honor Graduate of the entire University. Dr. Lightsey had an outstanding career in the practice of law. He served as an Assistant Attorney General for the State of South Carolina, General Counsel to the South Carolina Public Service Commission, and Legal Advisor to the President of the South Carolina Senate, the South Carolina Finance Committee, and the South Carolina Senate Banking and Insurance Commission. He argued a number of groundbreaking civil rights cases before the United States Supreme Court, represented the State of South Carolina many times before the South Carolina Supreme Court and the United States Department of Justice, and became well recognized as one of the nation's leading lawyers in the field of regulatory and administrative law. During that same time, he was active in South Carolina politics. He was the Chairman of John C. West's successful campaign for Lieutenant Governor in 1966. Four years later, he served as Chairman of the South Carolina Democratic Party when it swept all major offices in the election of 1970. Although he enjoyed great success in politics and the practice of law, his true love lay in education. He was an adjunct and full-time professor at the University of South Carolina School of Law for nearly twenty years. On several occasions over that period, the law students elected him as the Outstanding Professor of the Year. In 1980, he became Dean of the Law School and served in that position with great distinction, creating the South Carolina Legal History Collection in the law library and instituting the Strom Thurmond Visiting Scholars program, among other innovations. In 1986 a new leadership challenge took him to Charleston to become President of the College of Charleston. Dr. Lightsey was President of the College for six years, a time that he and his wife, Kathleen, remembered with great joy and pride in the growth and accomplishments of the College and the warm support they received from the Charleston community. During his tenure as President, and at his initiative, the College of Charleston became the University of Charleston and also was admitted into the NCAA. When he retired from the College in 1992, his legacy was a new direction and momentum, which helped move this institution to greater successes. He returned to Columbia and continued his practice of law with the McNair Law Firm and his good friend, former Governor Robert E. McNair. During his time at the School of Law, the College of Charleston, and the McNair Firm, he also served on the National Commission on the Bicentennial of the United States Constitution, the South Carolina Commission on Higher Education, the Judicial Merit Selection Commission, and as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Belle W. Baruch Foundation. In recognition of his life-long dedication to education, Dr. Lightsey received honorary doctorate degrees from Limestone College, Winthrop College, the University of Charleston, the College of Charleston, and Clemson University. After his retirement from the College of Charleston, he remained an adjunct professor at the College and taught additional classes at the University of South Carolina School of Law. He has established the Lightsey Fellows Endowment for junior faculty at Clemson University, an endowed chair in philosophy and a music scholarship at the College of Charleston, a scholarship in his mother's name at Converse College, and an endowed chair in his father's name at the School of Law. Dr. Lightsey enjoyed scholarship and writing, and was the author of five books and a number of publications. He was a member of Trinity Episcopal Cathedral and served there as a member of the Vestry. In 1991, the South Carolina Bar Association awarded him the Durant Distinguished Public Service Award, the most prestigious statewide recognition that is bestowed upon an attorney. In 1993, he received the Order of the Palmetto, South Carolina's highest honor for civilian public service. He is survived by his wife, Kathleen; their four children, Harry McKinley Lightsey, III, of Columbia, and his wife Mercy; Wallace Kay Lightsey of Greenville, and his wife Marsha; Kathleen Elizabeth Lightsey Ortiz of Boyds, Maryland, and her husband Michael; and Dr. Edgar Glenn Lightsey of Austin, Texas, and his wife Jeannie; and ten grandchildren, Ellen Exia Lightsey, Harry McKinley Lightsey, IV, Jacob Glenn Lightsey, David Ransom Ortiz, Emma Kay Lightsey, Daniel Martin Ortiz, Connor Glenn Lightsey, Sarah Morgan Ortiz, Suzanne Elizabeth Lightsey, and Caroline Elizabeth Ortiz. Dr. Lightsey lived a full and fascinating life, and he truly gave more than he received. He loved the practice of law, but more than that he thrived on teaching it; he loved good food, but more than that he relished preparing a fine meal for others; and he loved to fish, but more than that he delighted in watching a child or grandchild hook into a big one. He will be remembered for his great intellect, his keen sense of public service, and his generous spirit. Above all, he will be remembered as a teacher and a leader in higher education and the law. Visitation will be at the home, 17 Mill Pond, on Tuesday, January 17, from 4:00 to 6:00. Funeral services will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 18, at Trinity Cathedral in Columbia. Burial will follow at Elmwood Cemetery. Dunbar Funeral Home, Devine Street Chapel, is assisting the family. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorials be made to the College of Charleston Foundation, 66 George Street, Charleston, SC 29424-0001; or the University of South Carolina School of Law, 701 South Main Street, Columbia, SC 29208. www.dunbarfuneralsandcremations.com Visit our guestbook at www.charleston.net/deaths.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by Charleston Post & Courier on Jan. 16, 2006.

Memories and Condolences
for Harry Lightsey

41 Entries

John Bethea

January 20, 2006

I remember Harry Lightsey as a man who was kind and respectful of others and who lived an honorable life. All those who do that are great. Most respectfully. John Bethea

AJ Taylor

January 19, 2006

I attended the College of Charleston from 1961 to 1965. I am sorry I did not attend the college during Dr. Lightsey's tenure. I did not know him, but I feel that anyone who attained that position must have been a great human being. God bless him and his family.

Dr. Randall Skalsky

January 18, 2006

My heartfelt sympathy to the family of Dr. Lightsey, for we all share in your loss. I treasure my copy of his 'Gems In A Crown' and recall so vividly his grand smile and effortless charm. Vale, amice . . .

Randy Skalsky

Class of 1990

John McCabe

January 18, 2006

Wallace and family - I am very sorry to hear of the passing of your father. I remember meeting him and playing pool at your home in Columbia in the summer of 1979. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. John McCabe

Betty Lee

January 18, 2006

You have my deepest sympathy and my prayers are with your family. I was an employee at the CofC from 8-'74 - 8-'90, PE&Hea.Dept.

James Hodge

January 18, 2006

Dr. Lightsey was a true inspiration to me as a law professor, College president, and practicing attorney. I took my first law-related course at the College of Law with Dr. Lightsey, learned a great deal for which I still rely on today, and appreciated his skill and way for words in the classroom. His career and his character touched thousands of persons across the globe - I'm pleased to have been one of them. With sincere condolences to his family for their loss,

James Hodge

Associate Professor, Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health

Phillip Dustan

January 18, 2006

I am saddened by the pasing of Harry Lightsey. I was (and still am) on the faculty of the Colege of Charleston when he was our President. The faculty respected him because he respected us during the exciting and often tumultous times as the College became a university.

Joyce Bylander

January 18, 2006

I was so saddened to hear of the passing of Dr. Lightsey. He was president during my time as a graduate student and also an employee of the College. He and his wife were kind and gracious leaders of a wonderful institution. My condolences to his family.

John J. Hutchings, M.D.

January 18, 2006

Godspeed, good sir. My condolences and prayers go out to the Lightsey family.

College of Chaleston '95

Che Jordan

January 18, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with your family. CofC Class of '93.

Sasha Russo

January 18, 2006

I attended CofC from 1992 to 1996. Dr. Lightsey was president for a semester while I was there. Condolences to the family.

Robert Theberge

January 17, 2006

Please accept my condolences to the Lightsey family. I became acquainted with Dr. Lightsey during his tenure as President for the College of Charleston. I am so sad to hear of his passing. God bless!

Sandee Jackson

January 17, 2006

As a 1997 Graduate of the College, I was not a student during Dr. Lightsey's tenure. Still, my heart is heavy for the great loss that the entire C of C family will no doubt feel. He leaves a wonderful legacy at the College, and he will always be remembered with fondness. My thoughts and prayers are with his family.

Deedra Lee Williams

January 17, 2006

I attended CofC from 8/88 until graduating in 12/92. Dr. Lightsey leaves behind a rich legacy and will be sadly missed. Godspeed to his family.

Vivian Brown-Mabry

January 17, 2006

Earth has truly lost an admirable gentleman.

My family and I send our condolences.

Romaine Huggins-Collins

January 17, 2006

Dr. Lightsey was a dear friend of my father's, Dr. Kenneth Huggins. I had the privilege of attending the College when Dr. Lightsey was President during my junior and senior years. My father was deeply saddened by the news of Harry's death and wanted me to sign this guestbook in rememberance of a great man and friend.

Jill Thomas

January 17, 2006

My condolences and prayers go out to the family.

Aimee Carter-Harris

January 17, 2006

I am honored and fortunate to have known such a kind, gentle and caring man during my college years in Charleston. He (& Mrs. Lightsey) ALWAYS made the College of Charleston students feel like family. My deepest sympathies and prayers go out to Mr. Lightsey's family.

Aimee Carter-Harris

class of -92

Matthew Maloney

January 17, 2006

The entire Lightsey family is in my thoughts and prayers at this time of your loss. May God be with you.

Michelle Fulton Hauser

January 17, 2006

I am so sorry to hear about the passing of Dr. Lightsey. The family is in my thoughts and prayers. Class of '96.

Jessica Moffett

January 17, 2006

I went to C of C between 1990 - 1994. Quite a shock of his passing. Condolences to his family.

Otto German

January 17, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you and the family at this most difficult time. Dr. Lightsey was a great man whom I had much respect for.

Brett Matteo

January 17, 2006

My condolences to the Lightsey family. I will keep Mr. Lightsey in my prayers.

Lynn Franklin (Benton) Foster

January 17, 2006

With empathy, I offer my deepest condolences to the Lightsey Family. Dr. Lightsey made many opportunities available to me during my years at the College of Charleston. To him I will be forever in debt.

Michelle Rose

January 17, 2006

His dedication and contributions to the College of Charleston will always be appreciated. One of my fondest memories of the College was the warm welcoming Harry and Kathleen had for the students at the President's home on campus. My thoughts and prayers go to the Lightsey family. He was a great man. (Class '86)

Michael Gibbs

January 17, 2006

My sincere condolences to the Lightsey family. Dr. Lightsey made a great impression upon me during my days as a student at the College of Charleston. He will truly be missed.

Wyndi Anderson

January 17, 2006

I am sorry to hear about Dr. Lightsey's death and grateful to have known him when I was a student at the College of Charleston. His energy and good works will continue to live out in many, many people for a long time to come.

Paul Dunlap '91

January 17, 2006

I had the honor of meeting with Dr. Lightsey while a member of Student Government at CofC. I can still remember the impression of greatness he left upon me. His passing is truly a loss. My condolences to his family.

Judge & Mrs. Louis Condon

January 17, 2006

Through law, politics, community and the College of Charleston, we knew and loved Harry. We will remember him always and keep his family in our prayers.

Louie and Marie

Patricia jetton

January 17, 2006

Dr. Lightsey was president of the College while I was there from 1986-1990 and I thought he was a wonderful leader and gentleman. He will truly be missed by those who knew him. Sincerely, Patricia Reynolds Jetton

Denny Ciganovic

January 17, 2006

My sincere condolences to the family in your loss. I came to the College just as Dr. Lightsey was leaving('92) and had a chance to see all he accomplished and did for the College. I have great admiration & respect for him.

H.C.A. MacLean

January 17, 2006

Dr. Lightsey was President at the College while I was a student there. He always had a kind word for all and was a strong supporter of the Greek system. I remember running into him on campus two days after the Hurrican hit - he was full of confidence and hope. Eternal memory!

Tara Currin Keels

January 17, 2006

College of Charleston, Class of 1993

Jeanne Stiglbauer

January 17, 2006

The thoughts and prayers of the Dreher High School family are with you during this time of sadness. A moment of silence will be held in Dr. Lightsey's honor during our announcements on Tuesday. Our deepest appreciation is expressed to the entire family for their support of our school. As a graduate of the College of Charleston, I add my sincere respect for Dr. Lightsey. My deepest sympathy,

Jeanne Stiglbauer

Melissa Costello

January 17, 2006

What a brilliant man the world and his family has lost. He was an inspiration to others.

Jack Patterson

January 17, 2006

I enjoyed the opportunity to get to know Dr. Lightsey when I was a student at C of C. I enjoyed the rounds of golf we got to play together. He was a true gentleman.

Matthew Dawson

January 17, 2006

My condolences to the family. He was truly a great man and contributed so much to CofC for which we are forever grateful.

Dick Still

January 17, 2006

Wallace: I was so sorry to hear the news of the passing of your father. I send my sympathies to you and your family. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Dotsy Lloyd Boineau

January 16, 2006

My thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time. The world has lost a brilliant man . His star will shine brightly so others may follow.Dotsy Lloyd Boineau

Malcolm Rhodes

January 16, 2006

We were sorrry to hear about Harry's death. I have fond memories of our meeting in Camden then again while in Charleston. Caroline and I will keep you in our prayers.

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