Joe Warren Wright

Joe Warren Wright, age 83 of Hamilton, passed away on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. He was born on December 19, 1941 in Carrollton, KY, the son of the late Joseph E. and Daisy (Cribbins) Wright. Joe was married to Karen Wright for 35 years, until her passing. He then married Helen (Nagy) Wright on May 8, 1999, and they were still together and very much in love when Joe passed. Joe was a true gentleman and influenced many that met him. He was a storyteller, and although his stories at first seemed outrageous, as you met his friends, you soon found out those stories were true. His grandson’s dubbed him “the most interesting man on earth.” He was an avid student of history who loved to travel and experience the world. Joe was an entrepreneur and business owner. His businesses were Tom’s Cigar Store, Surplus Ventures, Interiors Plus, and ALW. Joe and Helen started Interiors Plus together, an interior design, accessories, and furniture store, which leveraged Helen’s eye for design and Joe’s business savvy and installation services. ALW was a joint venture with Jim Arbogast, Tom Landy, and Joe Wright. The three of them restored Stearman biplanes (tail draggers). They also refurbished, restored, and sold Stearman components. Joe made many trips to Las Vegas for the Surplus Shows supporting Surplus Ventures. Joe was one of the first to import cost-effective tools, vices, and drill presses from China, buying by the container load. He had many stories of playing and winning at blackjack. Joe was a pilot and said, “I learned to fly these tail draggers from the old guys, someday those old guys won’t be around.” Joe carried on the tradition, teaching people to fly and becoming one of the “old guys.” Joe was also an avid hunter. His adventures took him to British Columbia, Canada, and Africa to hunt wild game. Again, leading to many stories on hunting Grizzly Bears and Mountain Goats. Joe was very even-keeled and nothing was a problem to him, telling everyone, “no problem” with a good handshake, smile, and encouragement, often over good food, drink, and conversations. He will be missed by many. Joe is survived by his wife, Helen; special cousin, Evelyn Maddox; stepson, Stephen (Dawn) Ross; grandsons, Christian (Nicole) Ross and Kevin (Daniela) Ross; and sister-in-law, Marlene Wright. He was preceded in death by his parents; first wife, Karen; and brother, Orville Wright. A Celebration of Joe’s Life will be held from 2pm until 5pm on Friday, January 9, 2026 at the Elks Club, 4444 Hamilton Middletown Road, Hamilton. Condolences may be left for the family at www.Webb-Noonan.com