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David Leightner Obituary

David Lee Leightner, 69, of Jackson, passed away on January 1, 2026. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Susan; his children, David (Tina), Mathew (Amy) and Abigail; grandchildren, Cody, Bray, Savannah, JT, Luke, Mattie and Maddy.
Dave found joy in life's simple pleasures. He was an avid cyclist, enthusiastically logging many miles each year while participating in rides like the DELMAC and ODRAM.
He had a deep love for the outdoors- a hunter, fisherman and a master gardener. Each year, he planted an incredible garden, sharing fresh vegetables and flowers throughout the growing season.
He worked as a journeyman at CertainTeed for 36 years, retiring in 2018. He was a thoughtful neighbor, dependable friend, and his generosity touched many lives. His quick wit and mischievous sense of humor will be deeply missed by all who knew him. Dave was always up to something!
Forever loved, forever missed.
Visitation will be held on Thursday, January 22, at Encounter Church, 620 Robinson Rd., Jackson, beginning at 1:00 p.m., with a Celebration of Life service at 2:00 p.m.

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

Published by Jackson Citizen Patriot from Jan. 14 to Jan. 15, 2026.

Memories and Condolences
for David Leightner

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Memorial Tree

Kim Wood and family

Planted Trees

Kim

January 22, 2026

David was one of a kind. Giving, caring and there for others. My heart and prayers go out to Susie and the kids.

Patty Ragain Copeland

January 19, 2026

Sue I´m so sorry for your loss. Dave will be greatly missed

Judie Utz

January 15, 2026

Susie, I´m so sorry for your loss. Because I can´t drive I won´t be there. Love you and will be praying for all of you for peace.

Mike Collard

January 14, 2026

A respectful, upright man. A great neighbor. Will be missed greatly! Looking forward to the reunion promised to believers. God's peace to his family and friends.

Donita Baker (Rice)

January 14, 2026

Dear Sue and family,
So sorry for your loss, our prayers are with you during this difficult time

McSweeney

January 14, 2026

I'm so sorry to hear the loss of David.
I pray for peace and healing for his family

Paul A Cosgrove

January 14, 2026

Our condolences to Sue and rest of family.Dave was a great guy and good neighbor always wanting to help around neighborhood. Help take care of my yard when I got sick and couldn't do it .always will be remembered for it and greatly missed God bless Leightner family .Paul and Annette Cosgrove.

Steve Kestner

January 12, 2026

To Sue and family, we are so sorry for your loss. Dave was one of my favorite people to work with for over 30 years. He was very knowledgeable, and he always had your back, but he also made work enjoyable. We also talked about our families often, and his family was everything to him. We will be praying for all of you.
Steve and Pam Kestner

Sylvia Quillen

January 11, 2026

Susan, We are sorry to hear of your husband´s passing! We want to express our condolences and be assured of prayers for him and your family! God bless! Sylvia and Jim

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Memorial Events
for David Leightner

Jan

22

Visitation

1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m.

Encounter Church

620 Robinson Road, Jackson, MI 49203

Jan

22

Celebration of Life

2:00 p.m.

Encounter Church

620 Robinson Road, Jackson, MI 49203

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