Elsie R. Light

Elsie Ruth (Carpenter) Light, a woman whose love and care knew no bounds, passed away on Sunday, August 27, 2023, in Lubbock, Texas, at the age of 91. Born on December 12, 1931, in El Paso, Texas, Elsie was the daughter of Alf Carpenter and Elsie Mae Carpenter, a heritage she cherished deeply.

Elsie's heartwarming presence touched the lives of many, as she was known as the embodiment of love and compassion. Her unwavering support was a constant beacon for those in need, and her gentle nature left an indelible mark on all who were fortunate enough to know her.

Elsie's journey began in El Paso, where she embarked on her educational path. After attending schools in El Paso and Lamesa, she graduated from Plains High School in Plains, Texas, in 1950. It was during these formative years that she met and fell in love with Wilford Dean Light, Jr., who would become the love of her life.

Her pursuit of higher education led her to Abilene, Texas, where she began her college studies at McMurry College. Subsequently, she found her academic home at Texas Tech College (now University) in Lubbock, Texas, where she earned a bachelor's degree in arts and sciences with a major in education. Her passion for knowledge and nurturing spirit later led her to teach in Junior High School in Littlefield, Texas.

On November 25, 1954, Elsie and Dean exchanged vows in the serene Plains Methodist Church in Plains, Texas. Their journey together took them to different corners of the country as Dean served in the US Air Force. From Denver, Colorado, to Eielson, Alaska, and beyond, Elsie and Dean's love story flourished amid the unique tapestry of military life. The Air Force bases they called home included Denver, Colorado; Colorado Springs, Colorado; Minot, North Dakota; Eielson, Alaska; Hill Air Force Base in Utah; Montgomery, Alabama; Indian Head, Maryland; and Albuquerque, New Mexico. These years were filled with adventure and growth for both their family and their love.

In 1980, Elsie and Dean returned to their beloved West Texas after Dean's service in the Air Force. Dean managed the farm, while Elsie continued her legacy of selfless service through volunteer work. They found spiritual solace at Lubbock's

Lakeridge United Methodist Church, where they cultivated a strong sense of community.

Following Dean’s passing, Elsie resided at Carillon Life Care in Lubbock during the later years of her life. Here, she continued to radiate her love and warmth to those around her. Her legacy is one of boundless love, selflessness, and unwavering care.

Elsie was preceded in death by her uncle and aunt Charles and Herma Jean Cumpton, her sister Carol Lackey, her brother Bill Carpenter, and her sons, David Brian Light, and Ronald Douglas Light. She is survived by her daughter Dana Steinhauer and son-in-law Justin Steinhauer, as well as her cherished granddaughters, Sarah Steinhauer from New Braunfels, Texas, and Stephanie Steinhauer, of Lubbock. Elsie’s love for her family was boundless and she served as a powerful example of love to all. Additionally, she leaves behind many nieces and nephews, her sister-in-law Betty Carpenter of San Antonio, and brother-in-law Don Lackey and his wife Cheryl of Abilene.

Services to honor Elsie's life will be held at Lakeridge United Methodist Church in the chapel. Her final resting place will be beside her beloved Dean at Resthaven Cemetery, where their love story will continue to inspire for generations to come.

As we bid farewell to Elsie Ruth Light, we remember her as a woman of unparalleled love, boundless care, and steadfast devotion. Her presence will forever echo in our hearts, a reminder of the profound impact one loving soul can have on the world.