On Sunday, April 27, 2025, William C. Brightman III, 56, signed off this mortal reel and headed into the final scene. Born in Lowell on March 29, 1969, He was the son of the late William Brightman Jr. and the late Linda James.
Bill grew up in Lowell, sharp as a knife and twice as quick. He graduated from Greater Lowell Regional Vocational Technical High School and went on to earn his degree in Electronics from Middlesex Community College—where his grades were so consistently high,he regularly collected academic awards the way some people collect baseball cards.
But don’t mistake him for some average honor roll kid. Bill was a walking encyclopedia of horror films and heavy metal history. From Romero to Raimi, from Sabbath to Iron Maiden—he didn’t just enjoy his favorite genres; he devoured them. He could quote Jaws line-for-line—“Let Polly do the printing!”—and had an uncanny ability to recall film release dates, obscure actors, band lineups, and any bit of trivia that would stump the rest of us.
A proud keeper of tradition, Bill hosted a horror movie marathon every Halloween night. For him, October 31st wasn’t just a holiday—it was sacred. His movie lineup was curated with the care of a museum archivist, and his excitement rivaled that of a child on Christmas morning. His all-time favorite quotes?
“BOY!” – The Tall Man, Phantasm
“Are you the babysitter?” – Victor Ulman, House of the Devil
“You won’t believe it.” / “You know me—I’ll believe anything.” – Lt. Garber & Lt. Patrone, The Taking of Pelham 123
Bill’s love of horror was matched only by his passion for classic heavy metal. His collection, which began in his teens, grew into an archive worthy of its own documentary. He knew every band member, every side project, and every album note—and he reveled in connecting the dots between them all.
He worked in food service throughout the Greater Lowell area and spent time in Martha's Vineyard, Greenfield, and Portland as well. Bill never needed a spotlight to shine—he brought his own light with him. Quiet, whip-smart, and deeply thoughtful, he remembered everything—and everyone.
Bill is survived by his sister Iris R. Hill and her husband Geoffrey D. Hill of North Chelmsford; and by his beloved niece, Samantha N. Rosa of North Chelmsford, who always brought a smile to his face. He also leaves behind many aunts, uncles, and cousins who knew that beneath his dark sense of humor was a heart full of loyalty and love.
In lieu of flowers or donations, crank up some Black Sabbath, read a little Poe, or pop Halloween into the VCR. That’s how he’d want to be remembered—loud, eerie, and unforgettable.
All services will take place privately, arrangements by the Tewksbury Funeral Home.