James "Jim" C Wright

James “Jim” C. Wright was born on Mother’s Day, May 14, 1944 to Kate Thomas Wright and Alonso Colbert. He was born in the Hill Country of Central Texas in the city of Cameron. Jim was born into a large blended family. Growing up, the family shared a strong bond of love and compassion, always caring for and supporting one another whenever the need arose.

In May of 1980, Jim met and married his wife, Sylvia Downes. Together, they shared many wonderful years and raised two sons, William Wright and James “Alvin” Wright.

Jim entered the United States Air Force in May of 1962, immediately after graduating from high school. President John F. Kennedy was the Commander-in-Chief at the time. During his distinguished Air Force career, Jim achieved the rank of Chief Master Sergeant, the highest enlisted rank authorized by Congress, a rank achieved by only a small percentage of Air Force personnel. Jim retired from the Air Force in 1989 after 28 years of dedicated service. He then made his home in Aurora, Colorado, where he spent many joyous years of his life with his wife and two sons.

After moving to Aurora, Jim joined the East Alameda Church of Christ, where he remained a faithful and devoted member until his passing. His faith was a steadfast part of his life and continued to be a source of strength and guidance throughout his years. Jim was actively involved in the life of the congregation, often leading prayers and taking great care to ensure that prayers were delivered appropriately, correctly, and in a timely manner. His commitment to serving the church reflected the sincerity of his faith and his love for his church family..

Following his military career, Jim continued his professional journey at the Denver Athletic Club, where he served for more than a decade as Manager of Security and Housekeeping Services before retiring.

Jim valued education and lifelong learning. He earned an associate degree in Police Science through the Community College of the Air Force, a bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice through Columbia College of Missouri, and a Master’s degree in Management through Webster University in St. Louis, Missouri. He was honored with the famed blue and white hood of the “Gorlock,” a ceremony associated with graduates earning a graduate or doctoral degree.

Jim enjoyed fishing, reading, Pug dogs, and sports cars. His military career afforded him the opportunity to travel and experience a vast part of the world, creating memories that remained a meaningful part of his life.

Outside of his professional endeavors, Jim was a loving husband, devoted father, cherished grandfather, beloved brother, and loyal friend. To his grandchildren, he was affectionately known as “Papa,” a name that reflected the special bond they shared. He leaves to cherish his memory his son: William Wright; his grandchildren: James Dallas Wright, James Cameron Wright, James Alvin Wright Jr., Aaliyah Wright, and Amaya Goff; his sisters, Mary Jo Jefferson of Houston, Texas; Dr. Rose Marie Wright of Schenectady, New York; and Lula Pearl Whatley of Fort Worth, Texas; his brothers, Melvin Brown and Charles Brown of Temple, Texas; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, extended family members, and friends who will forever cherish his memory.