Deacon Richard Wright

Mr. Richard Wright was born on June 1, 1945 in Pickensville, Alabama to Earlie and Georgia Ellen Wright, Sr. At the age of 79 years, Richard leaves behind a legacy of hard work, generosity and devotion to family and community. As the fourth of nine siblings Richard’s early life was shaped by the values of family and perseverance. He worked at Smith Douglass for many years where he eventually retired. However, retirement did not slow him down. With a strong work ethic and an entrepreneurial spirit, he founded a trucking business that he successfully operated until a back injury forced him to step away. Undeterred, Richard channeled his talents into his passion for cooking. Known for his incredible bar-b-que ribs and homemade ice cream, and boy was it good! Richard’s skills became the cornerstone of a new chapter in his life. Richard later became a cook at Soul Food Caf’e where he and Mary served as the backbone of the establishment. After the restaurant closed, it transitioned to running a catering business, which they operated for 15 fulfilling years. Richard was a longtime devoted member of St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church where he served as a deacon for 11 Years. He was also an active participant in the Male Chorus and Senior Choir under the leadership of Dr. Vincent McMillon. Richard served wherever he was needed in both church and the wider community. Richard leaves to cherish beautiful memories a loving and devoted wife of 58 years, Mary Wright; three grandchildren, Quintoria Ruth, Asia Jones and Marcus Wright II all of Texas; one great-grandchild, Courtlin Knight. He also leaves four brothers, John (Kaaren) Wright of Villarica, GA, Lunnie Wright of Saginaw, MI, James (Mary) Wright of Moundville, AL, Jeffery (Theresa) Wright of Pottstown, PA; two sisters, Rachel Williams of Washington DC and Earnestine Wright of Brooklyn, NY; one daughter-in-love, Simone Wright; sisters-in-law, Carolene Wright of Pickensville, AL and Ethel (Calvin) Linder of Saginaw; other relatives and friends. Richard was also blessed with the friendship of three very special friends who were always there for a helping hand, Earvine Watkins, Robert Glover and Calvin Linder. The family would also like to thank Region VII, Quanisha Morris and Rose Green of Safe Hands Warm Heart Home Health Care Agency. Richard was preceded in death by one son, Marcus Wright; one brother, Earlie Wright, Jr. and one sister, Yvonne Wright. Richard’s legacy will forever be remembered in the hearts of all who knew him. His kindness dedication and faith touched the lives of many, leaving behind cherished memories that will endure. Funeral service will take place at 11:00 a.m. on Wednesday, December 18, 2024 at St. Paul Baptist Church, 120 N. 15th St., Saginaw, MI 48601. Dr. Vincent McMillon will officiate with interment in Forest Lawn Cemetery, 3210 S. Washington, Saginaw, MI 48601. Visitation will take place from 2:00 p.m. until 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday at the funeral home. The family will be present from 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Deacon Richard Wright

June 1, 1945 - December 9, 2024