Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
John Light Obituary
July 13, 1947 - August 6, 2023
John Randolph Light of Roanoke, Va., passed away on Sunday, August 6, 2023.
Born in Roanoke to Samuel Jackson and Dorothy Chinnis Light, John was enthusiastically devoted to his family, faith, community, and to his undying love of learning. Graduate and Student Body President of Patrick Henry High School in 1965, he went on to the University of Virginia as an Echols Scholar and member of the ROTC.
After graduation, he served two years in Guam as a Naval Supply Officer. He then returned to the University of Virginia for an MBA at The Darden School of Business. John worked in Chicago at Baxter Laboratories for seven years and came back to Roanoke to start his business, Commonwealth Door and Hardware, with his best friend and brother, Richard Light and partner, Dick Watson.
He was an active member of The Kiwanis Club of Roanoke and The Boardroom and he cherished his years of service on the board of Mill Mountain Theatre and on the Vestry at St. John's Episcopal Church.
His fondest memories were with his family and friends at UVA football games and reunions and vacationing with all of his children and grandchildren in Isle of Palms, South Carolina. He read voraciously every day-naval histories, the classics, contemporary fiction. He was always ready for a conversation. He always wore a smile. His presence and his heart were bigger than life.
He is survived by his wife, Juliet Koelle Light; his brother and sister-in-law, Richard and Susan Light; and his brother-in-law and sister-in-law, Jeff and Carolyn Webber. He is also survived by his three children and their families, daughter, Mary Frances Dusenbury, son-in-law, Robert Dusenbury, and grandchildren, Jasper and Milo; son, Jackson Light and grandchildren, Anna, Elizabeth, and Jack; and daughter, Maggie Light, son-in-law, Daniel Morris, and grandson, Owen.
A visitation will be held at the Roanoke Chapel of Oakey's Funeral Home on Friday, August 11, 2023, from 4 to 6 p.m. The Memorial Service will be held at 11 a.m. on Saturday, August 12, 2023, St. John's Episcopal Church.
In lieu of flowers, please send donations to The Kiwanis Club of Roanoke. Online condolences may be shared with the family at www.Oakeys.com.
Arrangements by Oakey's Funeral Service – Downtown Chapel, Roanoke (540) 982-2100.
Memories and Condolences
for John Light
Sponsored by Oakey’s Roanoke Chapel.
Gayle Ferrell
August 31, 2023
I'm so sorry to hear of Mr. Light's passing. Back in the J.M. Turner Construction days he would come in our office often. Such a nice man.
Paul Ripley
August 14, 2023
Richard, so sorry to hear that John is no longer with us. The Colonial Hills Club comes to mind!
Becky Fariss
August 12, 2023
Johnny was everyone´s friend and friends were always the most important. Thank you to Julie and family for supporting those friendships. Mike held him in the highest respect both
professionally and personally. I will be in touch later as I am out of town now. Blessings to all!
Roger Vest
August 11, 2023
John was the finest man I have lost another cousin with Floyd county roots
How you can show support
Robin Roberts
August 10, 2023
That picture of Johnny is exactly how I saw him every time our paths crossed. That smile!!
He was a great guy and well loved by all. I didn´t realize he was such a voracious reader till being in the St John´s book club with him. He made the club so interesting with his knowledge of so many topics. He and his smile and pleasant demeanor will be missed by all. Bless all of his family! Maggie ,I´m so sorry. Julie, I know how happy u made him. God bless you! Robin
Zip & Vince Basile
August 10, 2023
Johnny was ever a positive and cheerful man. His smile not only lit his face but spread warmth and good feelings to all he met. Condolences to Julie and his beautiful family.
Zip & Vince
Wanda Boblett
August 9, 2023
Having worked in the Construction Industry for many years, I had the pleasure of working with John on many construction related projects. He was always knowledgeable, professional and helpful. I'm so sorry for your loss as he was a most dedicated and respected gentleman. Wanda Boblett
Showing 1 - 7 of 7 results
Make a Donation
in John Light's name
Memorial Events
for John Light
People and places connected with John
Roanoke, VA
Roanoke Times
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
Recent Obituaries
How to support John's loved ones
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Resources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor John Light's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
