LITTLE ROCK, AR - Jennings Osborne, the philanthropist whose Christmas lights and fireworks amazed millions died Wednesday after complications following heart surgery. He was 67.
Osborne 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.

In a statement sent out Wednesday, Governor Mike Beebe expressed his sympathies with the passing of Osborne. "With the passing of Jennings Osborne, Arkansas has lost one of our highest-profile philanthropists," he said. "He brought comfort and entertainment to countless people, whether feeding disaster victims, donating fireworks, throwing unparalleled tailgate parties or lighting up Disney World. While a larger-than-life public figure, Jennings was also a kind and soft-spoken man, who always shared his financial success with others."

If you live in Arkansas, whether you know it or not you've probably been touched by Jennings Osborne's generosity in some way.
Maybe it was with millions of Christmas lights or Razorback barbeques or fourth of July fireworks.
If you love animals, so did Jennings Osborne. His $150,000 gift help save the Pulaski County Humane Society.

If you sympathize with storm victims, so did Jennings Osborne. Arkadelphia was one of many communities where Osborne has showed up unannounced to help feed families in need.
If you love kids, so did Jennings Osborne. He has paid for murdered children's funerals and provided birthday gifts for countless kids who happen to be hospitalized on their big day.
If you like to eat, so did Jennings Osborne. His barbeques at tailgates and other events are legendary.

If you enjoy fireworks, so did Jennings Osborne. He bankrolls July 4th fireworks so central Arkansas can have a big night on Independence Day.
And Osborne's love of Christmas lights proved so ...