Edward Lightner, son of the late Samuel and Annie Mae Brown Lightner was born June 27, 1941 in Baltimore, Maryland. He departed this life on Wednesday evening, May 28, 2008. Edward received his education in the Baltimore public school system graduating from Paul Lawrence Dunbar. He worked in the Baltimore City Public school system until retiring after 30 years of service. Edward accepted God and joined Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Thompson. Eddie's calling of ministry through song came as a young boy, under the guiding hands of his father Eddie with his two brothers and cousin Joseph Graves deceased became the ''Teenage Gospel Singers'' later becoming ''The Birds of Harmany.'' He wrote the lyrics for most of the songs they sang. Eddie was a great story teller. He enjoyed pool, basketball, seafood and the greatest love of all, singing. He sang at the drop of a hat, all you needed to do was ask him. Eddie was a loving brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend to all who allowed him to be. He was always offering a helping hand, living by a strong family motto ''Your word is your bond.'' Eddie served as the vice president of the Govan Mannor Tenant Association. The tenants loved him. Eddie is survived by: two brothers; Harlee and David Lightner; a sister, Ruby; two sisters-in-law, Barbara and Doris; four nephews, Graig, Anthony, Larry and Travis; one niece, Tiang; two uncles, Gary and Mark Brown; one aunt Anna Bell Brown; a very devoted friend, Joseph Wiggians and a host of other relatives and loved ones.