Meet The Team
John Lile
Owner
John has an extensive background in all facets of residential and light commercial construction. He started his homebuilding experience more than 35 years ago as a framing contractor learning this aspect of the business hands-on. After successfully working in this field for a number of years, John decided to expand his knowledge by joining a successful custom homebuilder to learn more of the business. After learning all he could about the custom homebuilding business, John went on to become a homebuilder with one of the largest and most successful homebuilding companies in the U.S.
John has experience in all aspects of homebuilding, from initial product development to land and lot development to all facets of actual home construction. He has held many positions over the years, most recently as a regional president of a multi-state operation for a large homebuilding company on the east coast. His background and education in homebuilding is extensive, and he has been recognized by many of his peers as a leader in this industry. John also has an extensive background in training and consulting, including management development and leadership training.
In the last 10 years John has dedicated himself to understanding how to build a “high performance” custom home. To this end he has committed 100% of his homes to an Energy Certification Program and is also a Green Certified Builder. John recently obtained his commercial contractors license.
Family and Interests
John is an active 65 year old husband and father of two. He has been happily married to Barbara for more than 42 years, and they are in the process of continuing to adjust to life as “empty nesters.” They have two wonderful children (Justin and Jessica) who are both happily married. Justin is following in his Dad’s footsteps and has recently taken over the helm of Morningstar Homes as President. Jessica recently jointed Morningstar Homes as the Director of Social Media and marketing and she and her family are moving to Raleigh. Last, but certainly not least…I am a very proud Grandpa to Chance (9) and Liam (5).
John loves the outdoors and cannot think of a better way to spend a day then on his boat fishing or camping in the mountains. In addition, he is addicted to anything with a motor in it and has built and/or restored several cars and motorcycles. John is also an avid photographer who has spent much of his life combining his love of the outdoors with his passion for outdoor and wildlife photography.
Justin Lile
President
Justin started his construction career working for Morningstar Homes as he worked his way through college. After completing his degree he became a full time project manager for Morningstar building some of our larger custom homes. After working for Morningstar for 5 years he decided to broaden his experience by going to work for one of the largest homebuilders in the nation with a focus on developing his knowledge of Purchasing and Estimating of new home construction. After 5 years learning everything he could about purchasing and estimating as well as the systems in place that a high volume builder uses, he has returned to Morningstar Homes to provide the leadership to take us to another level.
Justin has obtained many certifications and achievements, but the two that have the most direct application to what he is doing are as follows:
- Justin is a licensed General Contractor as well as a Certified Green Builder.
Justin will be involved with all the day to day operations as well as overseeing the future direction of the company.
He is married to Velvet and they have a 9 year old son that keeps them busy full time. Â His hobbies (when he has time) include photography and woodworking.
Barbara Lile
Interior Designer
Barbara has supported Morningstar Homes’ clients as an interior designer for the last 12 years. In 2015 she made the decision to join Morningstar full time so she can provide even more attention to our clients. She has 20 years experience as an Interior Designer with accolades such as Bachelor of Science degree in Interior Design (with honors) from Meredith College, a full time member of the American Society for Interior Designers (ASID) as well as accreditation from the National Council for Interior Design Qualification (NCIDQ). Barbara also has special certification through the National Homebuilders Association (NAHB) for Aging in Place (CAPS).
Lynn Thompkins
Broker in Charge
Lynn’s professional background includes experience working in large corporations in England in a multi-cultural environment, as well as a variety of different roles here in the United States. Lynn obtained her Brokers license in February 2006 and has since worked for a variety of Real Estate companies in Chapel Hill, N.C.Â
Born and raised in England, Lynn moved to Chapel Hill when her husband’s career relocated them and their three children to North Carolina.
Lynn is most noted by her unique sense of humor. She has a flair for organizing, problem solving and working with people from all walks of life. She is an active member of the Chapel Hill Tennis Club and also plays regularly on a Volleymom’s team. She is excited to be with MorningStar and is looking forward to meeting you.
Jessica Hudson
Internet & Social Media Marketing
Jessica has assisted MorningStar Homes off and on through the years as a consultant for MorningStar’s equestrian properties. She will now also assist with website management and social media content for MorningStar Homes to help us communicate with the community on multiple platforms.
Jessica and her family have recently moved back to NC! She is married to her husband Matthew and is mom to one son in preschool. Her hobbies include photography, horses and keeping up with a fast-paced toddler.
