Thomas S Lightfoot

Thomas S. Lightfoot, a cherished husband, father, and friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep at his home in Kissimmee, Florida. Born on March 9, 1935, in Chicago, Illinois, Thomas lived a life marked by service, love, and dedication. The son of Sally and Jonathan W. Lightfoot Sr., Thomas was shaped by the values instilled by his parents and beloved stepmother, Rosa Heard. He was predeceased by his parents, brothers Jonathan Jr. and Arnold Eugene, and stepmother Rosa, carrying their legacy forward with grace and dignity. In 1955, Thomas married the love of his life, Maude E. Stephens, in a ceremony in Chicago. For 71 beautiful years, they shared a journey filled with love, laughter, and countless cherished memories. Together, they raised two daughters, Karen Lynn and Karla Jeanette, who, along with Karla's husband Jeffrey, will carry forward Thomas's memory and the values he held dear. Thomas served his country with honor in the United States Air Force from 1955 to 1958, reaching the rank of Staff Sergeant. His service took him to Korea, where he honed skills that would become lifelong passions. After his military service, he returned to Chicago, completed his education and spent two and a half joyful years teaching mathematics at Tennyson Upper Grade Center, where he left a lasting impact on his students. Driven by a passion for dentistry, Thomas attended Dental School at the University of Illinois-Chicago, where he embarked on a new chapter of his career. The year he entered Dental school, his class made history: The seven young Black men who were admitted constituted the largest number of black students ever admitted to the dental school. He was a dedicated member of the Chicago Dental Society, contributing to the renowned Midwinter Meeting and fostering a community of learning and camaraderie among dentists worldwide. A man of many talents and interests, Thomas was actively involved in his community. He was a member of the Frogs and Midwesterners Social Clubs and enjoyed building and flying scale model radio-controlled airplanes, a skill he developed during his time in Korea. He was a member of the Chicago Model Masters and the Osceola Flyers flying clubs. His enthusiasm for tennis was well known as was his adventurous spirit—evidenced by his forays into fishing, boating and water skiing. He traveled with family and friends. He wanted his girls to see and know the world. Thomas was loved for his quick wit, warm smile, and ability to find the silver lining in any situation. His tender care, love, and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew him. As we remember him, we celebrate a life well-lived and a legacy of love that will endure in the hearts of his family and friends. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Thomas’ honor to a charity of your choice. His memory will forever be a guiding light for those who knew him, and his spirit will continue to inspire future generations.