Donald Bright, 97, of Morris, passed away Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Serenity Estates of Morris with his loving family by his side.

Born on June 8, 1929, in Morris, Don was a son of Fred and Marguerite (Moran) Bright. He graduated from Morris High School as a member of the Class of 1947. Following graduation, he enlisted in the United States Army, where he proudly served his country. After receiving an honorable discharge, Don married the love of his life, Ruth Osmundson, on February 12, 1955, in Morris. Together, they built a loving home and raised a family, creating a life filled with devotion and hard work.

Don enjoyed a long and distinguished career as an ASE Certified Master Mechanic. He began working alongside his father at Bright’s Garage before purchasing and operating the local Shell station in downtown Morris. He later joined Grenell Motors and, subsequently, Greenway Motors, where he served as Service Manager until his retirement in June 1990. Throughout his career, he was respected for his expertise, strong work ethic, and dedication to his profession.

A faithful member of Grace Lutheran Church, Don was also deeply committed to the American Legion Morris Post 294, an organization that was especially meaningful to him. He devoted countless hours to supporting the post and its members, proudly serving multiple terms as Commander. His leadership and service reflected his enduring commitment to fellow veterans and the community he loved. In his leisure time, Don enjoyed working in his workshop, where he practiced upholstery and built model airplanes. He was also a loyal Chicago Cubs fan and rarely missed an opportunity to cheer on his favorite team.

Don will be remembered as a hardworking and devoted family man, especially devoted to his beloved grandchildren, and a friend to all. Though a man of few words, he was always willing to lend a helping hand and share his knowledge with others. He was known to say, “I’ll do whatever I can for you as long as you pay attention and try to learn from it,” a reflection of his generous spirit and desire to teach those around him. His strong work ethic and willingness to help others will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

He is survived by his two daughters: Donna Jo (James) Noethe of Morris and Dee Ann (Robert) Unzicker of Yorkville, IL; five grandchildren: Michelle (Mike) Gould, Casey (Jenna) Kerr, Colby (Ashley) Noethe, Stefani (Noe) Lara and Robin (Garrett) Tabbert; six great grandchildren: Zayn Lara, Amanda Gould, Michael John (Corinne Herzog) Gould, Kaitlyn and Mason Tabbert, and Miles Thomas Kerr; and two great-great grandchildren: Bradley Gould-Michelkamp and Odin Galloway; his brother ,Glenn Bright of Morris, and several nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents, his wife Ruth, and his siblings Marguerite Blair, Dorothy Hyland, and Bob and Earl Bright.

Cremation rites have been accorded, and the family will receive friends at Grace Lutheran Church, 10025 IL-47, in Morris, on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of memorial service at 11:00 a.m. Inurnment will immediately follow with military honors at Sample Cemetery in Morris.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the staff at Lightways Hospice in Joliet, IL, for their compassionate care of Don.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the donor's choice.

Family and friends are encouraged to log onto www.FrulandFuneral.com to sign the guest book, upload photographs and share Don's memorial page online through social media.

Cremation services and arrangements have been made under the direction and care of Reeves, Fruland & Baskerville Funeral Homes and Crematory. (815-942-0700).