Jennings Osborne, philanthropist with the dazzling lights, dies at 67

[The Straight Story]

Jennings Osborne, philanthropist with the dazzling lights, dies at 67

LITTLE ROCK — Jennings Osborne, the philanthropist whose extravagant Christmas light displays drew international attention but also a court battle, died Wednesday after complications following heart surgery. He was 67.

...

The Fort Smith native with the larger than life personality often called himself “the luckiest guy in the world" for all that he was able to do with his wealth, which he made in the medical testing business.

Osborne was known for his flashy light displays as well as the barbecues he hosted for Arkansas Razorback fans, emergency workers and politicians alike.

"He's been bigger than life," David Bazzel, spokesman for the Osborne family, said. "He's one of the most unique character's, not just in Arkansas, but if you look across the country, and see someone who's successful financially and gives so much back to the average person. He gave it back in so many ways."

http://www.arkansasonline.com/news/2011/jul/27/jennings-osborne-philanthropist-dazzling-lights-di/