San Jacinto College – North Campus pioneer dies at 95

Proctor Woodward Brightwell
Proctor Woodward Brightwell
Proctor Woodward Brightwell

Our dear dad, Proctor Woodward Brightwell, passed away on January 13, 2015.

At 95 he truly embodied the “greatest generation.” He was the youngest of 5 children and was employed for 48 years by the same company in the gas pipeline business. He served 10 years on the San Jacinto Junior College Board of Trustees and was instrumental in the start of the North Campus. His commitment to technical education was honored by the naming of the Proctor Brightwell Technical Vocational Building – the second building to be built on the North Campus.

An inveterate traveler, by age 80 he had been to all 7 continents. For over a decade he lived and traveled in his RV for 6 months every year, in addition to enjoying many cruises.

He leaves a wonderful legacy for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. We were blessed to call him our father and “Grampie,” to have him for as many years as we did, and to know in so many tangible ways his love and support for us. He is survived by daughters Emily and Eileen, three grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren.