Born in Lake Charles on May 10, 1928, Mary Ann was the daughter of Alexander Tolson Darby and Alice Mary Ann Guernier Darby. A lifelong resident of Lake Charles, she cherished her hometown and the many memories she made there throughout her nearly 98 years.
Mary attended St. Charles Academy, where she formed lifelong friendships and developed the strong faith and character that guided her throughout her life.
Mary found joy in the simple pleasures of life. She was an avid rockhound, who loved searching for and collecting unique stones. She also enjoyed sewing, knitting, and pottery, creating beautiful handmade pieces that reflected both her creativity and patience. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and caring heart will be fondly remembered by all who knew and loved her.
Mary Ann was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Gerald Wright, Sr.; her parents, Alexander Tolson Darby and Alice Mary Ann Guernier Darby; her daughter, Catherine Wright; her grandson, Christopher Peltier; her granddaughter, Joyce Allen; and her 4 sisters.
Those left to cherish her memory include her children, Gerald Wright, Jr. and his wife, Myra, Mary Ellen Peltier and her husband, Vaughn, and Laura Alden and her husband, Mike.
She is also survived by her grandchildren, Chad Wright, Brandon Wright, Michele Berg, Danielle Wyble, Julie Morris, Laurie Duhon, Kristie Racca, and Suzanne Johnson, along with 13 great-grandchildren and 16 great-great-grandchildren.
The family will welcome friends for a memorial visitation at J. E. Hixson & Sons Funeral Home, Chapel of Peace on Wednesday, July 1, 2026 from 1pm until time of memorial service at 2pm. Inurnment will follow at Graceland Orange Grove Cemetery in Lake Charles.
