Stanley Bright, III

Stanley Bright, III, 79, baptized as George in the Orthodox Church,  beloved husband of Elena Pashilene Bright, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, November 1, 2023, at Augusta Health in Fishersville.

He was born on July 9, 1944, in Chestnut Hill, PA to the late Stanley Bright, Jr. and Elizabeth "Leila" Norris Reeve Bright.

Stanley lived a remarkable life filled with passion and dedication to his family, community, and various interests. He will be lovingly remembered for his contributions and the lasting impact he made during his time with us.

A devout member of Holy Myrrhbearers Orthodox Christian Church in Mount Crawford, Stanley's faith played a central role in his life. He actively participated in religious activities and touched the lives of many through his unwavering devotion.

Stanley was an accomplished individual with a wide range of interests. From 1975 to 1978, he proudly served as the Captain of the historic First Troop Philadelphia City Calvary, showcasing his leadership skills and patriotism.

An avid cyclist, Stanley embraced the freedom and exhilaration that came with each ride, completing centuries and double centuries. Additionally, he enjoyed sailing and embraced every opportunity to set sail on open waters.

Horseback riding and fox hunting were also among Stanley's favorite pastimes. His adventurous spirit led him to experience the thrill of galloping alongside magnificent creatures while treasuring the bond forged between rider and horse.

Throughout his life, Stanley dedicated himself to serving various communities. He served on the boards for All Saints of North America Orthodox Church in Middlebrook and Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Crozet. Prior to moving to Middlebrook, he was a member of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Bryn Mawr, PA.

Professionally, Stanley made significant contributions as well. He served on the Board of Governors for the Philadelphia Stock Exchange.

In addition to his wife, he is survived by his son, Percival Lowell Bright; his daughter, Henrietta "Locky" Laughlin Trachsel and her husband, William Scott Trachsel; his step-daughter, Julia Blain and her husband, Thomas Blain; his grandchildren, Katharine M. Trachsel, Elizabeth L. Trachsel, and William B. Trachsel; his step-granddaughter, Alexandra I. Blain; his sisters, Leila Reeve Bright, Elfrida Bright Keiter, Christine Bright Keegan, and Jeanette Bright; and his brothers, J. Clayton Bright, Josiah Reeve Bright, James R. Bright, and Lawrence Lowell Bright; and beloved dog, Molly.

In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by a son, Stanley Bright, IV and a brother, Nicholas F. Bright.

A Vesper Service will be held on Friday, November 3, 2023, at Holy Myrrhbearers Orthodox Christian Church in Mt. Crawford, beginning at 6:00 PM with a Memorial Service to follow.

A Funeral Service will be held on Saturday, November 4, 2023, at Holy Myrrhbearers Orthodox Christian Church, commencing at 11:00 AM with Father Gabriel Weller officiating.

A burial service will be held on Tuesday, November 7, 2023, at 1:00 PM at the Holy Trinity Monastery in Jordanville, NY.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial donation may be made to Holy Myrrhbearers Orthodox Christian Church Building Fund (PO Box 2032, Harrisonburg, VA 22801 or donate online at, https://donorbox.org/help-us-build-his-church).