Joseph "Buddy" Bright

We gather in loving remembrance of Joseph Bright III, affectionately known as "Buddy," a man of quiet nobility, gentle humor, and steady faith. Born on January 31, 1950, in Hartsville, South Carolina, to the late Joseph Bright Jr. and Fannie Mae Virgil Bright, Buddy was shaped early by strong family values, education, and a deep appreciation for learning.
Buddy began his education at St. Joseph's Catholic School in Hartsville, SC, where he attended through the third grade before continuing in the Darlington County Public Schools and graduated from Butler High School in 1967. He continued his academic journey at Morris College in Sumter, SC, where he earned a Bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts in 1971-an achievement that marked the beginning of a life devoted to service, curiosity, and joyful living.
In 1976, Buddy made Washington, D.C. his home, where he spent most of his adult life. He built a meaningful career as a Social Worker, using his natural charm, sharp wit, and calm presence to guide and support troubled youth. His quiet leadership and compassionate spirit touched countless lives and left an imprint that time cannot erase.
Buddy was also a man of many passions. He pursued his love of photography, nurtured an enduring fascination with computer science and gadgets, and earned a reputation for his meticulous attention to detail-especially in documenting and preserving his personal records with remarkable precision.
He is preceded in death by his parents and his sisters Victoria Bright and Deborah A. Bright.
Buddy leaves to cherish his memory: his sister Linda (Eugene) Bright-Edwards of Hartsville, SC; his brothers, Carl Bright, and Rev. David (Penelope) Bright both of Hartsville, SC; his nephew, Lyndell Bright of Hartsville, SC; and an adoring niece, Janice Bright of Columbia, SC. He also leaves the three Taylor children he lovingly fathered in spirit-Desah A. Taylor, Taylor M. Taylor, and Isaiah DeAngelo Taylor all of Washington, D.C. He is remembered with affection by a host of other nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.
Buddy lived with grace, led with love, and leaves a legacy of laughter, wisdom, and joy. Among his personal writings, his heart speaks most clearly through these profound and humble words-"What matters to me most is that God is good all of the time."