Frankie Darell Bright

Frankie Darrell Bright, 81, of Crawfordville, Florida, passed away peacefully at his home on June 18, 2026, surrounded by his loving family. Frankie was born on January 14, 1945, in Kayford, West Virginia, to Robert and Gladys Bright. He was the seventh of nine children and carried with him throughout his life the values of hard work, loyalty, and service that were instilled in him from an early age. A proud patriot, Frankie served his country as a United States Army Special Forces Green Beret from 1965 to 1967. His military service was one of the greatest sources of pride in his life. The values he learned during his time in the Army—discipline, courage, sacrifice, and service—remained with him long after he hung up his uniform and helped shape the man so many knew and respected. On June 6, 1966, Frankie married the love of his life, Rhonda White, a Crawfordville native. Together they built a life filled with love, laughter, and devotion, celebrating their 60th wedding anniversary just twelve days before his passing. Shortly after their marriage, they moved to Titusville, Florida, where they raised their two sons, Darell and Danny. Frankie worked for Florida Power & Light for many years before retiring in 2008 at the age of 62. He was known for his strong work ethic, dependability, and willingness to help others whenever needed. A lifelong avid hunter and outdoorsman, Frankie had a deep appreciation for nature and enjoyed sharing his knowledge with others. For decades, he dedicated countless hours to teaching hunter safety and firearms training courses while working closely with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. He believed strongly in responsible hunting, firearm safety, and conservation, and he took great pride in educating generations of hunters. After returning to Crawfordville in 2013, Frankie continued his commitment to serving others by helping establish local hunter safety programs and volunteering his time within the community. Even after he stopped teaching classes, he remained involved and continued supporting the programs and people he cared about. Wherever Frankie lived, he faithfully served his community, leaving a lasting mark on all who knew him. Above all else, Frankie loved his family. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, uncle, and friend. His grandchildren brought him immeasurable joy, and some of his happiest moments were spent sharing stories. Frankie will be lovingly remembered by his wife of 60 years, Rhonda Bright; his sons, Darell Bright and Daniel (Jenny) Bright; his brother, Jimmy Bright; his sister, Terri Naster; his grandchildren, Tyler, Nick, Amelia, and Ethan; and many beloved nieces, nephews, extended family members, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Robert and Gladys Bright, and several brothers and sisters. The family will receive friends on Friday, June 26, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until 12:00 noon at Friendship Primitive Baptist Church. Funeral services will begin at 12:00 noon, with burial to follow at Friendship Memorial Gardens. In honor of his faithful service to our nation, Frankie will be laid to rest with Military Honors. Though he has laid down his earthly burdens, the example he set through his love of family, devotion to country, service to community, and willingness to help others will continue to live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

Frankie Darell Bright

January 14, 1945 - June 18, 2026