He was born on April 24, 1939, in Bragg City, Missouri, to Russell and Grace (Kirk) Brightwell. In 1960, he married the love of his life, Madeline (Gray), in St. Louis, Missouri. Together, they built a life filled with love and family and welcomed two children, Linda and Donald.
Donald was employed most of his career with Phillips Pipeline and then retired to Branson, Missouri.
He found great joy in the things that mattered most to him, attending church and Bible study, watching and attending the St. Louis Cardinals games, bowling, and spending time with family. These gatherings and simple moments brought him happiness and created lasting memories that his family will hold dear for years to come.
Donald leaves behind his beloved wife, Madeline; daughter, Linda (William) Spires; seven grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; sister, Dorothy (Sal) Cira; and brother, Bill (Jean) Brightwell.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Russell and Grace Brightwell; son, Donald R. Brightwell; and siblings, George Brightwell, James Brightwell, Patsy Johnson and David Brightwell.
Memorial Gathering and Ceremony: Family will receive friends at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, November 5, 2026, until the time of the Ceremony at 11:00 a.m. at Chatham Baptist Church, 1500 E. Walnut St., Chatham.
The family is being served by Butler Funeral Home- Chatham, 8855 State Rt. 4, Chatham.
Please visit www.butlerchatham.com to offer your condolences.
