Louis Albert Wright

He was born in Huntington, West Virginia July 17, 1931, the son of the late Carl and Chesta Wright. A depression-era child, Lou was one of 14 children. The story that he changed his birthdate on his birth certificate to join the Marines in 1948, when he was just 17 years old, was found to be true. Lou explained he discovered: “I was a better lover, not a fighter” and then joined the Air Force where he retired in 1968. He went on to sell electrical and plumbing supplies for 30 years; he could tell you how to get anywhere as he knew the state of Florida like the back of his hand. A passion for firefighting was born out of tragedy when in 1974 his home burned down in the rural area of Mount Plymouth, Lake County, Florida by arson. There was no fire department close enough to answer the call. He then went on to help establish a volunteer fire department and was the Chief for many years. More than anything Lou was a family man who helped to care for and support his family.

Lou is survived by his loving wife of 35 years, Patricia Lee. He was preceded in death by his wife of 33 years, Frances Lucille (Mt. Plymouth, FL). He cherished his two beloved daughters: Christine Elizabeth (deceased 1997) and Kimberly Edith. He will be remembered lovingly by his grandchildren Jennifer Polk [Trent], Kenneth Walker [Jessica], Miranda Walker, and Melinda LaFavor all of Jacksonville, FL. One of his greatest treasures is his eight great-grandchildren and four great-great-grandchildren. In his last years he had a “legacy wall” to aid his memory and it was filled with family. He often remarked how this was the only thing he would get to take to heaven with him! He also had two stepsons, Marty and Tony Higdon, whom he loved. This list does not even begin to cover the many children that he took into his home over the years and parented for a season. He has a large extended family and many who will miss his fun-loving personality!

A funeral service celebrating the life of Mr. Wright is being postponed due to the current global pandemic and will be scheduled when family and friends are allowed to gather to celebrate his life.