Menu
Search by Name
Search by Name
FUNERAL HOME
Bright Rope Obituary
July 25, 2025
Penryn, California - We honor the memory of Bright Rope, 79, who journeyed from this world while working at his home, surrounded and supported by family on that day.
He was born on August 5th, 1946. A natural story teller, he dedicated over 35 years to teaching English composition, literature and Native American studies at Sierra Community College. Both inside and outside the classroom, all those who crossed his path were met with a unique blend of wit, intelligence, knowledge, and compassion, and were almost always left with a deep and lasting impression.
In his free time, he loved landscaping, especially the building of rock walls, learning to play ukulele, and making art. His interests varied widely and his creativity was boundless and after his long teaching career, he enjoyed his retirement years as a student, always learning.
He is preceded in death by his parents, James and Elizabeth Thomas, and his brothers, David and Pete. He is survived by his children, Hosa and Laurel, his grandchildren, Kyan, Rylah, Maya, Chyanne, and Bubby, his brothers, Boomer, Kenny, and Scooter, and his nephew, Steve. He also leaves behind his partner of 30 years, Lillian.
A memorial service to honor the memories of Bright Rope will be held at Lassila Funeral Chapels, 551 Grass Valley Hwy., on Saturday, Aug. 9th at 11:30 a.m.
We mourn his passing, but find comfort and solace knowing that he positively and profoundly impacted the lives of so many.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
Memories and Condolences
for Bright Rope
Sponsored by Sacbee.com.
Richard Diehl
September 17, 2025
What a legend. I was his student in the late 90´s. I have many fond memories. I am happy to have known him.
David and Sue Lee
August 17, 2025
We were so sad to learn of Bright Rope´s passing. He was such a welcoming neighbor when we bought the property next door to him. We remember fondly the conversations over the fence, especially our first spring here, and the spot on advice he gave us about caring for acreage. He will be missed.
maya
August 14, 2025
I miss my papa I love you papa
Carson Keever
August 9, 2025
Bright Rope was such a bright presence, and I know how much he will be missed by those close to him. I had the privilege of learning from Bright Rope in the classroom and he also taught me to change the oil in my car. Sending love, thoughts and prayers. Carson
Mason
August 9, 2025
I've been putting this off... how does one translate an entire lifetime into words? The only man to walk this Earth that I trusted as much as my own father. My earliest and best memories all had Bright Rope in them. Bright Rope Beach, the old Long Bar property, Roland, Clover and the old Black cat converging in the pasture, sweat lodge and the hill behind the house. Amber, Mason, Hosa and Laurel watching the old men tell stories around the fire. Treasures. I love you Bright Rope.
Jae
August 8, 2025
Brightrope and I shared many stories while I was learning English in his class room. He taught me to how to find my own style and to enjoy the journey. He will always be apart of me and the journey.
Gloria Riley
August 8, 2025
Lillian, so many memories and blessings was sent to us by you and rightrope during our run at Kokopelli Indian Arts Much of our success and enjoyment was due to your presence and help. I feel his spirit , always! Thank you and God Bless!
ATari
August 8, 2025
I enjoyed the conversations we had, the laughs and the sitting in silence listening to nature. Thank you, Lillian, for introducing us and to both of you for being such great friends. You will be remembered.
ATari
August 8, 2025
He was a great guy to sit and talk with, laugh with or just listen to nature with. Thank you, Lillian, for introducing us. I'm a better person because of it.
Pavel
August 7, 2025
It´s hard to put into words what it means to lose someone like Bright Rope. I first met him as my professor in college, but very quickly, he became much more than that. We weren´t far apart in age, and our shared curiosity and conversations, especially around Native American culture, sparked a lasting friendship.
Bright Rope was one of the most thoughtful people I´ve ever known. He didn´t just teach, he shared, he welcomed, and he connected. Over the years, he invited my family into his world, sharing the beauty and depth of Native traditions through festivals, gatherings, and meals. Our families came together many times, and in doing so, we created memories that now feel like precious gifts.
We´ve known each other for nearly 20 years, and his presence has left a deep imprint on my life and the lives of my children. His kindness, wisdom, and generous spirit will always stay with us.
May your journey be gentle, and may you find peace among the ancestors.
sally davis
August 6, 2025
Bright Robe was always happy and warm towards everyone. He also "brightened" the room he entered.
kerri
August 6, 2025
May You R. I.P
Karen Hodge
August 5, 2025
I am sadden by the passing of Bright Rope. He was such a unique man always walking the path of his own drummer.
Csimu & Bernie BlueWolf
August 3, 2025
We'll miss your presence in the world. So many memories...the tales of our youth.
Annette A Nylander
August 3, 2025
You will be so missed by so many my friend. Your wit and wisdom brought light and laughter to all who knew you. You were a true blessing in my life in so many ways.
Javier
August 3, 2025
He was more than just an instructor at Sierra college he was a mentor an artist and a musician and I´m proud to say he was my friend and I was blessed to see him one last time. I´m gonna miss my friend.
Bronwyn Manzer
August 3, 2025
It was a tremendous honor to count Bright Rope as a friend. He left an indelible impression on me, as he has done with most people who have known him, and for even those who met him only once~! I was grateful to know him through my dear friend, Lilian, who was his partner. They adored each other and knowing both of them has been an experience for which I am very grateful. They are both such beautiful souls.
Bright Rope reminds me so much of the great, educated story tellers of our past, including Utah Philips and even Mark Twain. His intelligence, combined with wit and a deep, deep concern, awareness and history of our society as a whole, and especially for Native people (both in America and our local tribes) was very keen and of great importance to him.
He opened his home for gatherings often. His home and property was always welcoming and inclusive!
He and my sweet friend, Lilian reflected the same spirit of love, pride and respect to all who have been invited to share their lives. I deeply appreciate them both.
Bright Rope was a man, who would be hard for anyone to forget. I know this will be true for all his students he taught at Sierra College and beyond. He never stopped being a teacher! And to all those who knew him it would be hard to find a single person he hasn't impacted.
I have great love for my dear friend, Lilian and their granddaughter Maya and pray that in their grief and sadness they will feel supported and loved as they adjust to not having Bright Ropes physical presence. Greatest blessings of comfort and provision to Bright Ropes son, to Lilian and Maya and to all his friends and family.
I will continue to send up prayers for all of you!
Mary Fernandez
August 2, 2025
So sorry for your loss Lillian. Sending prayers & much love!
Lillian
August 2, 2025
Oh my Love,
It is a brokenheart I say goodbye and bless your journey away from our world to a place that holds and comforts you in peace.
Thank for filling my life with laughter and love every day we shared together.
I'll hold on to each treasured memory you left me,
For it will lead me to you someday.
You and me, side by side once again.
Loving and laughing eternity.
Lillian
Joei and Lawrence Williams
August 2, 2025
Bright Rope was a very intelligent man with a beautiful soul. He will truly be missed by everyone that knew him. He is holding hands with the angels and may he rest in peace.
Donna
August 2, 2025
You are missed my friend, we kneed to laugh and will giggle and smile when we remember you..safe travels...d
Showing 1 - 30 of 30 results
Make a Donation
in Bright Rope's name
Memorial Events
for Bright Rope
How to support Bright's loved ones
Honor a beloved veteran with a special tribute of ‘Taps’ at the National WWI Memorial in Washington, D.C.
The nightly ceremony in Washington, D.C. will be dedicated in honor of your loved one on the day of your choosing.
Read more
Should I Send Sympathy Flowers?
What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
What Should I Write in a Sympathy Card?
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read moreResources to help you cope with loss
How to Cope With Grief
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read more
Estate Settlement Guide
If you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Obituaries, grief & privacy: Legacy’s news editor on NPR podcast
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read moreWays to honor Bright Rope's life and legacy
Obituary Examples
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
Obituary Templates – Customizable Examples and Samples
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
How Do I Write a Eulogy?
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more
