Pastor Charles Frank Lightner was born on 7/16/1944 to Benjamin Franklin Lightner and Callie Watkins in Italy, Tx. At an early age, he moved to Dallas, Tx and received his education in the Dallas ISD. From a child, it was evident that he was destined to be a leader . He was blessed to start his own trucking business landing various contracts throughout the city. Over 55 years ago, he responded to his inevitable call from God and began preaching the uncompromising gospel at the tender age of 16 years old. In 1974, God elevated him to become, the humble founder and shepherd of the New Comforter COGIC in Dallas, Tx. Pastor Lightner was most proud to be a SERVANT to God, his church, family, and community. In 2001, under Pastor Lighnter and his beloved, late wife, Lady Margie Lightner's leadership, the church purchased 6 acres of land and founded the Cedar Oaks Retirement Center which allowed the community's most valuable citizens the comfort, pleasure, and security which they had given to families and communities for most of their lives. In 2012, under his leadership the Cedar Oaks Child Development Center and New Comforter COGIC's Non-Profit Commercial Food Bank which has been blessed to provide for over 4,500 families throughout the DFW metroplex, was also founded. Pastor Lightner was a visionary with a kingdom mindset. Pastor Lightner had a love for vintage cars and his guitar. On 10/20/2016, after seventy and two years, Pastor Charles F. Lightner boarded the "Old Ship of Zion" bound for Glory and joined his beloved, late wife of 50 years, Margie Lightner. He leaves to cherish his precious memories, 1 daughter, 3 sons, 9 grandchildren, 1 great-grandchild, New Comforter COGIC family, and a host of other relatives and friends.

You may visit Pastor Charles Frank Lightner as he slumbers in sweet repose on Friday, October 28, 2016 7-9pm at New Comforter COGIC, 1800 E. Illinois Ave., Dallas, Texas 75216.

The Celebration of His Life and Legacy will commence Saturday, October 29, 2016 11am at Saintsville Sanctuary COGIC, 2200 S. Marsalis Ave., Dallas, Texas 75216.

Mr. Vernon Omarr Smith, FDIC