Wayne Jefferson Wright

Wayne Jefferson Wright, 87, died October 18, 2026. He was a longtime resident of Sun Lakes, Arizona, formerly of Marion, Illinois. Born June 3, 1939, in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, Wayne carried with him a steady devotion to learning; a deep respect for the people and places that shaped his life; and unwavering love and support for his family.

Wayne earned a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology at the University of Alberta and remained there for medical school, medical research, and a general surgery residency. His path reflected a disciplined mind and a lifelong commitment to careful study, service, and the responsibilities of healing.

Wayne practiced as a general surgeon in Canada and Tennessee, and later retired from the Veteran’s Administration Medical Center in Marion, Illinois. Throughout his career, he brought to his work a quiet professionalism and an enduring regard for those he was entrusted to help.

Beyond medicine, Wayne’s interests were wide-ranging and thoughtfully pursued. He enjoyed attending and watching Indy Car races, curling, and the pleasures of being a private pilot. He was a devoted student of both Canadian and American history; a lover of classical, jazz, and big band music; and an enthusiastic fan of British mystery dramas. He also valued travel, making a point to visit locations across all the continents—always with an attentive eye for what each place could teach.

Wayne was a member of Sun Lakes United Methodist Church. He served as past president of New Adventures in Learning, was a Regional Boy Scout Council member in Marion, IL, and participated as a Kiwanis member—giving his time with consistency, purpose, and a sincere belief in community.

Wayne is survived by his spouse of 60 years, Marjorie Gladys Wright; daughter Lindsay Wright [John Lin]; sons Scott Wright [Elizabeth Cowan Wright] and Cameron Wright [Dawn Wright]; grandchildren Melanie Lin, Brian Lin, Daphne Lin; Matthew Brew, Alexandra Wright, and Hudson Wright; nephews Murray [Cindy] Wright and Daryl [Laurie] Wright; nieces Shauna McGinnis and Kathy [Marcello] Cano; and in-laws Ollie and Don Terrault.

Wayne was preceded in death by parents Frank & Alyce Wright; sisters Claretta Wright and Lenore McGinnis; brother Leighton Wright; and nephew Kelly McGinnis.

A Celebration of Life service will be held at Sun Lakes United Methodist Church on Saturday, October 31st, at 11am. Lunch for all will follow in the Fellowship Hall.

The family would like to give special thanks to the Sun Lakes Copper Drive neighbors for their unending support; Hospice of the Valley for their compassionate and exceedingly competent care; and Wayne’s New Adventures in Learning family and the Romeos.