Ray Wright

Ray Wright, 88, passed away peacefully, July 24, 2026, at home surrounded by loved ones. He was born on December 16, 1937 in Enid, Oklahoma, the son of Murl and Valera (Peak) Wright, and brother to 7 siblings.

Ray graduated from Vandalia High School in Vandalia, IL where he met the great love of his life, Carol (Williams) Wright. Ray and Carol shared 69 wonderful years of marriage, just celebrating their anniversary on June 30th. Their partnership was defined by steadfast love, generosity, and a quiet strength.

After high school, Ray proudly served his country in the Army Reserves. He served six months active duty and 8 years total where he was ready to be called into action. Ray was a line haul supervisor for various trucking companies and spent the majority of his career at Old Dominion Freight Line. His hard work and faithful service culminated in a well-earned retirement. Although, after retiring you could still catch Ray visiting Old Dominion to check up on things and see "his trucks".

Ray's faith shaped both his days and his service to others. He was a member of Brookshire, and then Crossroads United Methodist Church where his selfless spirit showed in practical, hands-on ways - serving as a handyman at the church, volunteering with the church food pantry, and giving his time through "B.U.M.M." Brotherhood of United Methodist Men. He also volunteered at the West Side Free Store and as a Little Brown Jug parking lot volunteer, giving kindness not as an occasional gesture, but as a way of life.

While quiet in nature, Ray was a sweet and devoted man to those who knew him. He enjoyed camping, tinkering in his "shop" and going for long drives with Carol. He was a proud Ohio State fan, but was happiest when cheering on his grandchildren at sporting and band events. He also enjoyed refereeing when the grandkids got too loud during family game nights.

Ray is survived by his wife Carol Wright; daughters, Lesa (Jim) Bishop and Amy (Mike) Michalak; grandchildren, Sarah Bishop, Brian (Jenni) Bishop, Cameron Michalak and Emily Michalak; great grandson, Jackson Bishop; and sister Bernice Etcheson. He was preceded in death by his parents and six of his siblings.

Visitation will be held at Crossroads United Methodist Church, 1100 S Hague Ave, Columbus, OH 43204, US, on August 8, 2026, from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm. A Memorial Service will follow at the same location on August 8, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Crossroads United Methodist Church for the Food Pantry, 1100 S Hague Ave., Columbus, OH 43204.