Van S. Lightning 1990-2021

He was born March 6, 1990, to Sylvester Van Cox and Ella Lightning Ford, both of Youngstown.

Van passionately enjoyed being a great father, boxing, exercising, making music and helping the community. He was a ladies man, one who could immediately grab your attention with his smile and beautiful bright eyes.

His friends would refer to him as “the life of the party.”

He was a well-dressed man who not only enjoyed life, but also worked hard. He was currently employed with Home Depot, where he was continuously promoted. He was a true friend and a protector, someone you could reach out to for anything.

If you had the chance to meet Van, you would know he would not want us crying today; instead, he would want us to celebrate his life, lift his name and remember the good times we each shared with him.

Sweet memories of Van will continue through his parents, Ella (Richard) Ford and Sylvester Van Cox; his grandmother, Mafaye Lightning; his three children, NaZirya LeAnn, Cali Lynn and Vanaya Serra Lightning; his sisters, Tracey Lightning, Terraine Lightning and Tyrella (Manigault) Estella Rose Cox; four brothers, Ronndle Lightning, Edward Lightning, Charles Winphrie and Sylvester Van Cox Jr.; and a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, cousin and friends.

He was preceded in death by his sister, Tamika Lightning; and his grandparents, Estella, Sylvester Cox Sr. and Elmo Lightning.

A homegoing celebration in his honor will be held today, Thursday, Jan. 14, 2021, at the Jaylex Event Center, 2110 Glenwood Ave. in Youngstown. Visitation will be held 10 to 11 a.m. today at the center.

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