Bowling Green resident Silas Wayne Lightfoot, age 63, passed away peacefully at the Medical Centre at Bowling Green on Thursday, February 13, 2025. Surrounded by his devoted family, Wayne, as he was known by his friends and loved ones, left behind a legacy of hard work, dedication, and love. His passing marks the end of an era for his family, friends, and the community, as Wayne was a cherished figure known for his kindness, generosity, and commitment to those around him.
Born in Bowling Green to the late Shirley Wayne and Peggy Harlow Lightfoot, Wayne’s life was defined by the values of family and community. He was a lifelong resident of Bowling Green, and throughout his years, he built a reputation for his unwavering work ethic and loyalty. Over the years, Wayne made significant contributions to his community, most notably through his ownership and operation of Like New Body Shop, a business he ran with pride and dedication. His expertise and hands-on approach to running his business earned him the respect and admiration of both his customers and colleagues.
Wayne was also known for his love of farming. His deep connection to the land was a central part of his life, and his passion for farming was passed down to those around him. Whether working on his farm or helping others with theirs, Wayne’s commitment to the land and to his community was unwavering. He always gave generously of his time and energy, and his efforts were deeply appreciated by all who knew him.
Throughout his life, Wayne was a man of faith. He was a long-time member of the First Pentecostal Church in Bowling Green, where he found support and strength in his spiritual community. Wayne’s faith guided him through both the highs and lows of life, and he was a deeply spiritual man who believed in the importance of family, hard work, and helping others. His church family was an important part of his life, and he took great comfort in the friendships and bonds he shared with those around him.
Wayne’s love for life was evident in his many hobbies and interests. He was an avid drag racing fan and enjoyed the thrill of the sport, often attending races and keeping up with the latest news in the racing world. His love for horses was another significant part of his life, and he enjoyed riding them whenever he could. Wayne also loved the great outdoors, particularly bird hunting, a pastime he shared with close friends and family. These hobbies brought him joy and gave him the opportunity to connect with nature and spend time with those he cared about.
Wayne’s family was always at the heart of everything he did. He was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather who cherished his family above all else. His wife of 35 years, Diane Lightfoot, was the love of his life, and the two shared a strong bond built on love, trust, and mutual respect. Together, they created a home full of love and support for their children and grandchildren.
Wayne is survived by his beloved wife, Diane Lightfoot, and his son, Tyler Wayne Lightfoot (Laura), both of Bowling Green. He is also survived by his step-son, Shannon Cardwell, and half-brother, Chad Allen Lightfoot. Wayne’s grandchildren, Sumer Green and Wyatt Cardwell, and his great-grandson, Austin Burton, were the light of his life, and he took great joy in watching them grow and thrive. He also leaves behind his uncle, Lewis Ray Lightfoot (Vickey) of Texas, who has been a part of Wayne’s life for many years.
Sadly, Wayne was preceded in death by his grandson, Kodie Cardwell, and his stepdaughter, Cammy Page. The loss of these family members was deeply felt by Wayne, and he carried the memories of them with him throughout his life. Despite the pain of their passing, Wayne’s love for his family never wavered, and he remained a pillar of strength and support for those around him.
Wayne’s passing leaves a void in the hearts of those who knew him, but his memory will live on through the countless lives he touched. His dedication to his family, his community, and his work will continue to inspire those who knew him, and his legacy will live on in the memories of those who were fortunate enough to call him a friend, father, husband, and grandfather.
Visitation for Wayne will be held on Wednesday, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. at the J.C. Kirby and Son Broadway Chapel, and will continue after 9:00 a.m. Thursday. A funeral service will take place at 12:00 p.m. Thursday, also at the J.C. Kirby and Son Broadway Chapel. Following the service, Wayne will be laid to rest in the Fairview Cemetery, where his family and friends will gather to say their final goodbyes.
In this difficult time, the family asks for privacy as they grieve the loss of their loved one. The outpouring of support from the community has been a great comfort to them, and they are grateful for the love and kindness shown to them during this challenging time. As they prepare to say goodbye to Wayne, they take solace in knowing that his life was one well-lived, full of love, hard work, and dedication.
The passing of Wayne Lightfoot is a loss not only to his family but also to the Bowling Green community. His kindness, strength, and dedication to those around him have left an indelible mark on the lives of all who knew him. As the community gathers to remember Wayne, they will honor his memory by continuing to live the values he held dear: family, hard work, and faith. Wayne’s legacy will continue to inspire future generations, and he will be remembered with love and gratitude for all that he gave to those around him.
May Wayne Lightfoot rest in peace, and may his family find comfort and strength in the memories of his life and the love he shared with them.
