James D. Brighton

James D. Brighton, 90, of Cambridge passed away on Wednesday, August 31, 2011 at his home. He was born in Asbury, NJ on April 11, 1921 and was a son of the late John and Lulu Taylor Brighton.

Col. Brighton graduated from Asbury Park High School class of 1939, having also attained Eagle Scout. He attended Southern Missionary College in Tennessee in 1972 and received his masters from Glassboro State College in 1975. He acquired a private pilot's license prior to joining the U.S. Marine Corp, where he served until his retirement as a Lt. Colonel in 1981. During his years of service he was stationed in the South Pacific during WWII and was a fighter pilot during Korean War.

He also worked for several aircraft manufacturers as a test pilot for next 16 years, which included being chief production test pilot for the CH-46 Seaknight. After retiring from Boeing, he entered the teaching profession.

Col. Brighton is survived by Doris A. Brighton, his wife of 70 years, two sons James Brighton and wife Jane of Cambridge, and Jack Brighton and wife Joanne of Dover, DE, two grandchildren James Brighton and his wife Colleen, Susan Banks and her husband Daniel, two great grandchildren, Samuel and William Banks. He is also survived by a brother in law, Eldon S. Slocum of Leeds, NY.

A memorial service will be held on Wednesday, September 7, 2011, at 6 p.m. at Seventh-day Adventists Church with Pastor Caesar Gonzales officiating. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions can be made to the Adventist Church, P.O. Box 721, Cambridge, MD 21613. Arrangements are in the care of the Thomas Funeral Home, P.A in Cambridge.