Daniel Jon Breffitt (Danny) passed away during the early morning on Sept. 27, 2023.
Danny was born in Philadelphia on Sept. 9, 1940. At 2 years of age, measles/encephalitis left him with severe disabilities, and he was not expected to live to age 3. But Danny recently celebrated his 83rd birthday. He was also not expected to ever walk, but he learned to ride a bike all over the city of Philadelphia and to board and ride public transportation by himself – without a fare or knowing where he was going.
Danny spent his early years in Philadelphia until his family moved to Bucks County. He eventually began to live in group homes in 1988, operated by BARC Developmental Services. Danny was able to access the larger community, work in the shelter workshop, and was cared for with love, respect and dignity. The staff and housemates became family and he remained with them until his passing.
While growing up in Philadelphia, Danny had a special charm and sense of humor which endeared him to his Philadelphia neighbors, as well as those in the group homes. He was a happy guy who enjoyed interactions with people, who liked to tease and to be teased, and always made you feel good with his sense of humor. Danny loved music and loved singing along to familiar songs. A favorite was “Pistol Packin’ Mama.” He appreciated what he had, loved his family, and loved everyone around him in the group home.
Danny is survived by his older brother Roy (Carol), Doylestown, Pa., and younger brother Steve (Brenda), Newark, Delaware, and numerous nieces and nephews. He was predeceased by his father, Roland, mother, Kathryn, and younger sister, Kathy Breffitt Jones. Many thanks to the wonderful employees of BARC, who looked after Danny, and made each day special for him. He loved and appreciated all of you, just as you loved him.
In 1943 a popular song was |I’ll Be Home for Christmas,” but he did not make it home the year that he got sick. Being “Home” to Danny was being with his Mom and Dad. This year, Danny will be “Home for Christmas.”
A graveside ceremony will be held at noon, Nov. 24, at Neshaminy Warwick Presbyterian Church Cemetery, 1440 W. Bristol Road, Warminster, PA. Friends and family are invited to attend a Celebration of Danny’s life, and luncheon, at 1 p.m. at Villa Barolo, 1373 Easton Road, Warrington, PA 18976. Contributions in Danny’s memory can be made to BARC Developmental Services, 1448 S. Old Bethlehem Pike, Quakertown, PA 18951.
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