Wednesday, February 11, 2026 9:20 am

Joe William Bright, age 83 of Forest City died Wednesday, February 4, 2026.

Joe was born September 28, 1942, in Rutherford County and was the son of the late James Crawford Bright and Ruby Harris Bright. He was the owner and operator of his family business, Bright's Moving Company. He was a member of Bethany Baptist Church where he was a member of the church Mission Team. He also served honorably in the United States Army.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother, Jim Bright, and his sister, Kaye Bright Champion.

Survivors include his wife of 61 years, Margaret Gamble Bright, his daughters, Susie Bright Melton and husband Marc, and Julie Bright Powell and husband Rick all of Forest City, his brothers, Wayne Bright and wife Bobbi, Doug Bright and wife Janice all of Forest City, and Mike Bright and wife Teresa of Rutherfordton, five grandchildren, Nic Melton, Thomas Melton and wife Emily, Gracie Powell, Jon Powell and Dawson Powell as well as a beloved great-grandchild, Harper Melton.

The funeral was held February 9 at Bethany Baptist Church with Rev. Lane Goff and Rev. Chris Fox officiating. Military honors were accorded by the Rutherford County Honor Guard.

An online guest registry is available at www.padgettkingcom

Padgett~King Mortuary and Crematory is serving the family.