William Lee Lightbody

William Lee “Bill” Lightbody, age 63, of New Philadelphia passed away peacefully in Union Hospital at Dover surrounded by his family Monday morning, February 27, 2012.

Born June 7, 1948 in Columbus, he was the son of the late Selby and Ruth (Bond) Lightbody.

Bill served his country in the United States Air Force, before beginning his professional career as a licensed psychiatric therapist for more than 30 years with Behavioral and Psychiatric Consultants of Canton. He was also a licensed clinical counselor and a licensed social worker.

Bill enjoyed traveling to national parks, fishing, biking, and boating on Atwood Lake.

He was also a member of the Carl C. Stoller New Philadelphia VFW Post #1445, the National Association of Social Workers, in addition to a number of professional groups.

On December 26, 1969, Bill married his lifelong companion and friend, the former Carol Zak. Together they raised two loving children, Ryan (Stephanie) Lightbody of Snohomish, WA, and Bridget (David) Chiarito of Black Hawk, CO. He is also survived by his grandson, Zachery Chiarito; and expectant granddaughter; his two sisters, Sue Ellen (Ken) Nichols of Kansas City, MO, and Christine (Ron) Binando of New Philadelphia; several nieces and nephews; and his sister-in-law, Elaine Zak of Pittsburgh, PA.

In addition to his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his infant brother, Larry B. Lightbody; and his nephew, Douglas Binando.

In keeping with Bill’s wishes, cremation will be cared for by Geib’s Tuscarawas Valley Crematory. A memorial service will be held at a later date.

Those wishing to do so may send the family a personal condolence and light a candle in remembrance of Bill by visiting the funeral home website.

Memorial contributions in Bill’s memory may be directed to either Community Hospice of Tuscarawas County, 716 Commercial Ave. SW, New Philadelphia, OH 44663 or the Tuscarawas County Humane Society, 6895 Dover-Zoar Road, Dover, OH 44622.