Robert N. Brightman

Lt. Commander Robert (Bob) N. Brightman, age 87, of Fall River, passed away Saturday, January 10, 2015 at home, surrounded by family. He was the husband of Priscilla C. (Getchell) Brightman to whom he has been married for the past fifty years.

Born in Fall River, a son of the late Richard A. and Veda C. (Branzell) Brightman, he was a lifelong resident of the city.

A graduate of B.M.C. Durfee High School, class of 1945, Bob attended Brown University, class of 1950, earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering. He served in the United States Navy during World War II, the Korean War, and was a Naval Reservist into the 1970’s. He was a member of the Military Officers Association of America (M.O.A.A.).

Bob worked at the Naval Underwater Systems Center, in Newport, RI, for many years, retiring as Head of the Systems Launch Division in 1982. He was an active member of the Union United Methodist Church.

An Eagle Scout, Bob participated in scouting throughout his life, most recently as Committee Chairman of Troop 24. He was a member of the US Junior Chamber (Jaycees), the B.M.C. Durfee Alumni Association, the American Legion John Stafford Post 314, the Over the Hill Gang, and a founding member of the Highland Neighborhood Association. An avid Boston sports teams fan, he enjoyed skiing, boating, horsemanship, and duckpin bowling.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by two sons: Alan C. Brightman and his wife Sonia of Bridgewater, Steven R. Brightman and his wife Jennifer of Providence, RI, four grandchildren: John Krill, Sydney, Dylan, and Samantha Brightman, many nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was brother of the late Richard A. Brightman.

His Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, January 17, 2015 at 10:00AM in the Union United Methodist Church, 600 Highland Ave., Fall River. Visiting hours Friday from 4:00 to 7:00PM in the WARING-SULLIVAN HOME OF MEMORIAL TRIBUTE at CHERRY PLACE, 178 Winter St., Fall River. Contributions in his honor may be made to the Union United Methodist Church, 600 Highland Ave., Fall River, MA 02720. Burial in Oak Grove Cemetery, Fall River.