Harlan Frederick Brightwell, passed away on July 3, 2024, at Northeast Georgia Medical Center after a brief illness. Born in St. Louis, Missouri, he was the son of the late Richard Ezra Brightwell and the late Esther Anna Louise Bordewisch Brightwell.

Harlan grew up in Okawville, Illinois. After high school, he attended Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) in Edwardsville, IL, where he earned a bachelor’s degree. He was an active member of the community, serving in the Jaycees, served as a Scout Leader, and as a member of the American Legion in Collinsville, IL. Harlan was dedicated to charity work and was known for his generous spirit and commitment to helping others. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother and uncle.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jeanne Krause Brightwell; three sons: David Brightwell (Julie) of Springfield, IL, Trevor Brightwell (Julie) of Seattle, WA, and Robert Nordyke (Mindi) of Tiger, GA; one sister, Beverly Brightwell (Dana Rosenzweig) of Belleville, IL; and twelve grandchildren: Caerus Brightwell, Carla Brightwell, David Brightwell, Sofia Brightwell, Chloe Isaac, Katie Beth Nordyke, Cali-Anna Nordyke, Kinley Nordyke, Carolina Nordyke, Kensie Nordyke, Clara Nordyke, and Kaleb Nordyke. He is also survived by a number of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews.

A service to celebrate Harlan's life will be held at First Christian Church, 15 Black Rock Parkway, Mountain City, Georgia, on July 18, 2024, at 5:00 PM. In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to First Christian Church, P.O. Box 402, Mountain City, GA 30562, in memory of Harlan Brightwell.

Beck Funeral Home in Clayton, Georgia, is honored to serve the family of Harlan Brightwell and is in charge of the arrangements. If you have any questions, please call 706-782-9599. An online memorial register book is available at www.beckfuneralhome.com.