James Michael “Mike” Lightsey was born October 6, 1952, in Laurel, to James Joseph Lightsey and Patsy Ruth Boutwell Lightsey. He died January 9, 2026.
Mike graduated from R. H. Watkins High School (1970), Jones Community College (1972), and the University of Southern Mississippi (BSBA 1973, MBA 1974).
A long-time CPA, he spent most of his career at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, where he was the second longest serving Chief Financial Officer in the medical center's history. After retiring from the medical center, he became President and CEO of Mississippi Federal Credit Union, now Mutual Federal Credit Union.
In 1979, Mike married Deborah Gale Mathis of Tupelo. Mike and Deb have been married 46 years and have two children, Katharine Day Lightsey Browning (Shawn) of Jackson and Joseph Michael Lightsey (Sally) of Augusta, Ga. In addition to being survived by his wife, Mike is survived by two granddaughters, Jane Woodward Lightsey and Frances Crawford Lightsey, and two grandsons Benjamin Baker Lightsey and Nelson Joseph Browning.
Also surviving are his sister Sharon Lightsey Walters (Ronnie) of Madison, two sisters-in-law Pat Mathis Dunn and Jean Dunn, both of Madison, two brothers-in-law, Gary O’ Ryan Mathis (Susan) and James Calvin Mathis (Athena) of Saltillo and all of their children. Mike’s parents predeceased him.
Mike and Deb met and married at First Baptist Church, were loyal United Methodists for over 30 years, and have been faithful Episcopalians since 2019. Mike loved St. Andrews Cathedral, where he was elected to the Vestry, served on the Lay Persons Pastoral Committee, handed out butter and jelly packets to the Tuesday Breakfast Club, bonded over beef tenderloin at burnt offerings, and cooked with the award-winning Holy Smokers. Most recently, he had accepted the position of church treasurer.
Known for his affability and distinctive laugh, Mike touched many lives. He helped with Stewpot’s weekly art classes, met each Friday morning with his men’s Bible Study breakfast group, enjoyed his Wednesday lunch bunch, and attended an annual silent retreat in Manresa, La.
About 10 years ago, Mike and Deb formed a travel group, and he joyfully led the group to far-off destinations, including Israel, Turkey, Greece, Iceland, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, France, England, Scotland and Wales.
In addition to his love of adventure, Mike appreciated art, particularly Mississippi artists. Mike and Deb enjoyed attending gallery openings, museums, and exhibitions. They forged friendships with the painters, and Mike readily filled the walls in their home.
Most of all, Mike loved his family with his whole heart. He was a wise and patient man, slow to criticize and quick to praise. He was a wonderful listener, great advice giver, and true friend. His four grandchildren were the recipients of creative stories, nonsensical songs and lots of hugs.
We will all miss our “Mighty Mike.”
Memorial donations may be made to Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral or a charity of your choice.
Visitation will be held at Saint Andrew’s Episcopal Cathedral, 305 E. Capitol Street, Jackson, MS, on Thursday, January 15, 2026, at 1 p.m. The funeral service will follow at 2 p.m. A reception for family and friends will begin after the service.
