It is with a heavy heart that we share the passing of Mark Steven Lighthizer Sr. (September 24, 1951; December 12, 2025), age 74, of Sullivan, Indiana. Mark was called home to be with the Lord on December 12, 2025. His life was rooted in Christ, humility, hard work, and a selfless devotion to others. Mark’s life reflected a carefully constructed foundation; each brick placed with purpose, patience, and intention.

A fifth-generation bricklayer, Mark carried forward a family legacy of true craftsmanship, skill, and integrity for over fifty years. Like bricks set one by one, the foundation of his life was built upon Christ, family, friends, and community; each strengthening the whole.

Mark lived out his faith through service, and he never treated anyone as a stranger. He readily shared the testimony of God’s work in his life whenever he had the opportunity. He donated his time and craftsmanship to the local community, which included a monument he built at the local park that serves as a memorial to those lost after the 2023 natural disaster. He served as Vice President of Our Father’s Arms, a local food pantry, where he quietly ensured that others were cared for and fed. Helping others was not just something he spoke about; it was something he lived.

Another brick in Mark’s foundation was his deep appreciation for Native American culture, traditions, and history. His connection to this heritage felt so natural that many friends and family joked he was born to the wrong family. Yet this passion was never kept to himself; he shared it freely, teaching others the values of respect, balance, and stewardship.

He honored these traditions through music, presence, and education. Mark was an active council member of the Waapaahsiki Siipiiwi Mound Historical Park, where he participated as a ceremonial drummer; it was here that rhythm, community, and storytelling came together. He was also dedicated to educating students within the community about Native American culture, sharing his knowledge of history and tradition during Pioneer Day and conventions. In addition, he was an active member of the local historical society, where several of his artifacts and life’s work were displayed.

Mark is preceded in death by his parents, Gene and Beulah (Crawford) Lighthizer.

Though his hands have set down his tools, the structure he created remains strong. Mark’s legacy lives on through his faith in Christ, his family, his service, and the many lives shaped by his steady hands and generous heart.

Among the strongest bricks in Mark’s life were his roles as a devoted husband, a loving father, a steadfast brother, and someone whose love deeply surrounded his extended family. He is survived by his wife of 47 years, Diana (Williamson) Lighthizer; his children, Ethan Watts (grandchildren: Amanda, Leandra, Kara, Katie and, Ella), Chandra (Watts) Erickson; (Ryan) (grandchildren: Micah, Ali, Devin, and Eli); Bree (grandchildren: Emma, Jace, and Lainey), Mark Lighthizer II, (Maurice) Daniel Lighthizer, and his sister, Carol (Lighthizer) Fritz; (Howard), as well as his many great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, extended family members, and dear friends who continue to carry forward the values and love he built.

There will be a celebration of life and information will be posted on Diana’s Facebook page.

In lieu of flowers, we are asking that contributions be made to Our Father’s Arms Food Pantry in honor of Mark’s legacy of service and compassion.

Phone: 812-268-1082

Email: ourfathersarms@frontier.com

Address: 711 S. Section St., Sullivan, IN 47882

Hours: Monday 6:00–7:15 PM | Friday 8:00–9:15 AM (EST)

A Celebration of Life will be held at his church; Crossroads Community Church in Sullivan, Indiana at a later date to be announced.