James E. Wright, Sr.

James E. Wright, Sr. (Vinegar), 79, passed into his Heavenly home Saturday, February 3, 2018 in Fort Smith, Arkansas. James was born in Fort Smith, Arkansas to Charles B. Wright, Sr. and Hazel Pierce Wright on January 19, 1939. He graduated from Fort Smith Senior High School in 1957 and went on to join the Navy in 1958, retiring after 25 years of service in 1983 as Master Chief E9. While in the Navy, he earned his Bachelor of Science Degree from Florida Southern College. After his retirement he returned to Arkansas and worked for the State of Arkansas as an Auditor and retired in 2003. In his younger days he was a bat boy for the Smokers baseball team and a golf caddy at Hardscrabble Country Club. He also played Softball while he was stationed in New Mexico.

He was a member of Grand Avenue Baptist Church and an avid golfer, and up until his death, played at Ratcliff Country Club weekly enjoying the game and the fellowship with his good friends. He also enjoyed spending time in his back yard watching the birds and enjoying the peacefulness, as well as playing dominoes with the domino gang.

He is preceded in death by his parents; sister, Donna Sue Khilling; and his first wife, Donna Haire Wright. He is survived by his wife, Sondra; brother, Charles Wright of Clarksville, TN; daughters, Ginger Wright, of Orlando FL, Debbie Oliver (Paul) Fort Smith, Tammy Andrews (Jeff) of Fort Smith; and son, James Jr. (Tonya) Van Buren; stepsons, Randy McGinnis (Carolyn) Hackett, Mark McGinnis (Julie) Fort Smith, and John McGinnis (Michelle) Centerton; nine grandchildren; five step grandchildren; and thirteen great grandchildren.

James was a beloved husband, father, Papa, and friend to many. His love for his children and grandchildren was immeasurable. He is going to be greatly missed and this is a tremdous loss for his family.

Celebration of Life Service will be held at Edwards Funeral Home on February 8, 2018 at 10:00am with Reverend Ronnie Toon officiating. Burial/Interment will follow at The U.S. National Cemetery all under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.

Honorary pallbearers will be Bill Montgomery, Curtis McDonald, John Shelby, Mike Foster, George Foster, Bruce Duelop, Jerry Eubanks, Paul Glover, Larry Brisco, Cleve Fields, and Shannon Macbee.

Visitation will be held at Edwards Funeral Home on February 7, 2018 from the hours of 5pm-7pm.

To sign an online guestbook, visit www.edwardsfuneralhome.com