Carl Vania Light

Carl Vania Light went to be with the Lord on Sunday, March 20, 2011 at 3:10 AM. Carl was born in Eden, NC on March 11, 1921 to Clinton O. and Anna Baker Light. He received his education in Eden and Raleigh. A veteran of World War II, he served 39 months in the South Pacific Islands, including the Philippines. In his biography, Carl extols the intricacies God provided during his tenure there where he received three bronze stars before completing his service in Japan, returning home in January, 1946.

For 42 years he was employed by the N.C. Employment Security Commission in Raleigh, retiring in 1983 as Assistant Chief of Benefits, Claims Department. Carl was awarded The Order of the Long Leaf Pine by North Carolina Governor James B. Hunt, Jr.. After retirement, he was employed by Budget Rent-A-Car for 10 years.

For 40 years, Carl was a member of First Baptist Church in Morrisville, where he served as Treasurer, Deacon and Teacher. After moving to Raleigh, he became a member of Leesville Baptist Church in 1994, where he served as Deacon, Usher and Greeter.

He leaves behind his wife, Rubye; his son, C. Eugene Light, of Raleigh; his brother, Orville and wife Yvonne, of Eden. His brother, Gilmer, of Houston, TX and his sister, Jean Stevens, of Eden, preceded him in death.

A celebration of his life will be held at Mitchell Funeral Home (7209 Glenwood Avenue) on Tuesday, March 22, 2011 at 11:00 AM. Visitation will be one hour following the service. Interment will be at 10:00 AM at Raleigh Memorial Park, with Military Honors.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to Hospice of Wake County – 250 Hospice Circle - Raleigh, NC 27607 or to Leesville Baptist Church – 13305 Leesville Church Road – Raleigh, NC 27617.

Please take a moment to sign the online guestbook to the right.