Frances Carol Seaver Wright

Frances Carol Seaver Wright passed away peacefully on December 24, 2025, at the age of 90. Born on June 17, 1935, Fran lived a life defined by love, grace, devotion, and an unwavering commitment to family, children, and community.

Frances (Fran) was a 1953 graduate of West High School in Knoxville, Tennessee, where she met the love of her life, Richard “Dick” Wright. After graduation, both attended the University of Tennessee, where Fran was a majorette in the UT Pride of the Southland Band. They were married on September 11, 1954, beginning a partnership that would span more than 70 years and serve as a model of loyalty, strength, and enduring love.

As Dick’s career with Xerox Corporation advanced, Fran supported their family through moves to Atlanta, St. Louis, Chicago, Rochester, and Northern Virginia. After Dick suffered a stroke, Fran became his steadfast caregiver. In 2005, they returned to Knoxville, before later settling again in Northern Virginia to be closer to family.

In her early years while living in Knoxville, she served as President of the Jaycettes and Chair of the Cerebral Palsy Committee. She dedicated more than 20 years to the education and care of children as a teacher, director of childcare organizations, and was a recognized children’s advocate. She later founded Wright Image, a public relations firm working with companies and associations within the childcare industry, always committed to strengthening families and communities.

Fran later served on the Board of the Fairfax County Council of the Arts and chaired the WolfTrap International Children’s Festival. She also spent time supporting the Fairfax County Preventative Child Abuse Task Force, chaired the Children’s Hospital Telethon, and actively supported March of Dimes fundraising efforts.

Her tireless work with Youth For Tomorrow, founded by former Washington Redskins Coach Joe Gibbs, became one of her most meaningful legacies. Fran gave innumerable hours as co-chair for Joe Gibbs Charity Benefit Galas, Youth For Tomorrow country fairs and auctions, and Burgundy and Gold Dinners. In recognition of her selfless commitment, Coach Gibbs honored Fran with the Volunteer of the Year Award.

She was the heart of her family, and rarely missed a game, performance, or milestone. If it mattered to her children, grandchildren, or great-grandchildren, it mattered to her. She filled childhoods with magic, ensured every birthday was remembered, and created a home filled with laughter, warmth, and belonging. She especially loved celebrating special events, making memories, and building traditions.

Known as Nana to her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, Fran took immense pride in her growing family. Nowhere was Nana’s spirit more evident than at Christmas—her favorite season. She decorated every corner with lights and ornaments, turning her home into a true Christmas wonderland. Holiday meals were legendary, with her grandmother’s cherished roll recipe always stealing the show.

Fran is preceded in death by her beloved husband, Richard W. Wright, and by her son and daughter-in-law, Allen and Felicia Wright. She is survived by her children Carol Wright Murphy (Kevin) and their children Stacie (Cory), Lindsey (Micah), Allison (Jake), and Kieran (Alanna); son Michael (Christine); son Dennis (Alison) and their children Jessie and Danny; son Todd (Lindsay) and his daughter Ryan; and grandson Patrick, the son of Allen and Felicia. Additionally, she leaves behind nine great-grandchildren: Ellie, Liam, Avery, Luca, Emerson, Lilliana, Jax, Joey, and Hayes. She is also survived by her brother Norbert Stovall, and her cousin Phyllis Davidson (Joe), along with their children, Matt and Angie, and their families.

A private celebration of life and burial will be held by the family. Fran and Dick will be laid to rest together in Knoxville, Tennessee.