Gerald Brightman

CUYAHOGA FALLS -Gerald Warner (Jerry) Brightman, 61, passed away suddenly at his residence on March, 9, 2015 in Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio.
He was born September 1, 1953, in Akron, Ohio to Warner E. and Joan F. Brightman Phillips. He graduated in 1971 from Cuyahoga Falls High School and went on to a musical career playing the steel guitar. He formed a group, "The Wheelers" and performed at the Wheeling Jamboree at an early age-then went on to play in Buck Owens' Buckaroos group, traveling the world. He married Kathleen Ruch on June 22, 1985. He enjoyed his train hobby and especially his wife and family.

He was preceded in death by his father, Warner, and his grandparents and several aunts and uncles. He is survived by his loving wife, Kathie; two daughters, Kim (Dave) Rich and Leah (Kenton) Althiser; grandson, Calvin Rich and granddaughter, Rowan Althiser; loving mother, Joan; step-brothers, Mark (Karol) Phillips and Brian (Linda) Phillips and step-sister, Liana (Brent) Yoder; brothers-in-law, Dow (Connie) Ruch and Dave (Kathe) Ruch and their families; and numerous cousins, aunts, and uncles.

He was a member of the former Maranatha Baptist Church in Mogadore, Ohio.

Calling hours will be March 16 from 6-7 pm, with a memorial service following at 7 pm at St. Luke's Lutheran Church, 2121 6th St., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44221 with Pastor Bob Linsz officiating.

In lieu of other remembrances, memorials, if desired, may be made to either St. Luke's Lutheran Church or Graham Rd. Baptist Church, 705 Graham Rd., Cuyahoga Falls, OH 44223. Services entrusted to Clifford-Shoemaker Funeral Home and Crematory, 330-928-2147.