James R. Lightner

The years have been many now since I had the opportunity to work Jim's company at Electrospace - probably 30 or so. He was a visionary and a man willing to take a risk, but risk that was reasonable. He surrounded himself with quality men and women who could disagree with him on something, but still maintained the respect and dignity of the relationship. I think that is a great quality and very necessary for the successful leader.

What a remarkable leader he was but more importantly he was a genuinely good man. First worked for him balancing 3 months of bank statements at the Sterling Bldg in Richardson TX. Worked off and on from then until the Raytheon buy out. While we could have loud conversations, we really listened to what was being said. While he won more often than I did, I think we both enjoyed those "discussions". This world lost an intelligent, forward-looking, fair man whose greatest love was always his...

How well I remember him as the President/CEO of Electrospace Systems, Inc. Although I was not in a position to know him well, I could see that he was a visionary and a decision maker. Within the last year, my wife, Marcia, took chemo and radiation treatments at the Methodist Richardson Cancer Center. I saw areas there where he and his family had endowed with financial gifts. That brought back fond memories.

I loved my Uncle Jim very much. He was a mentor to me in my life. We had lots of fun and laughter together. I appreciate him for what he did for me. I will miss him, but will remember him for what he was. I will meet him again in heaven. Good bye for now Uncle, from your niece Pat.

My heartfelt condolences go out to Mrs. Lightner, Cindy and family. Mr. Lightner was a great man. The years I worked for him were the best and most memorable of my life. He will be missed.

I also had the privilege to work at Electrospace from 1981 – 1990 and wish to thank Mr. Lightner for creating an exciting and fun work environment. May God bless him and his family during this sad time and know that he will be missed by many.

I had the priviledge of working for Mr. Lightner from 1979 until his retirement and I am deeply saddened to hear the news this week regarding his passing. He was truly a great leader and man in whom I highly respected. May God comfort you in this time of sorrow and bless you with His peace that surpasses all understanding. You and your family will remain in my prayers.

To: The Family Of James Lightner
I joined Collins Radio in 1960 fresh out of SMU Engineering School. After a year or so at Alpha Systems, I was rewarded with 8 more great years working with Jim Lightner in the Antenna Research Div. Those years presented me with a once in a life time opportunity to work with Jim in a high tech, high quality environment under Jim's superior management technique. Long hours, strong management, fun doing state of the art projects was what it was all...

I wanted to offer my sincere condolences to the family. Your loss also is a loss for the community and your sadness is shared by many.

I was privileged to join Electrospace Systems (ESI!) in 1983 and participate in that adventure created by Jim and others of great vision. Memories sustain.