David Andrew Wright

Born on May 19, 1990, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, David was the beloved and only child of Andrew Wright and Sherry Nelson of Raleigh, North Carolina. In 1996, David and his family relocated from California to Cary, North Carolina, where he grew up and developed the intellectual curiosity, compassion, and determination that would characterize his life.

David graduated from Athens Drive High School and continued his education at North Carolina State University, earning a degree in Human Biology. He later completed the Physical Therapist Assistant program at South University in Richmond, Virginia, and most recently was pursuing his Doctor of Physical Therapy degree at Methodist University. His calling was helping others achieve greater health, mobility, and independence, particularly older adults, for whom he held a special place in his heart.

A passionate, compassionate, kind and highly intellectual individual, David approached life with a deep sense of wonder and purpose. He loved music, reading non-fiction, cooking, the outdoors, working out, weightlifting, and especially hiking in the mountains. He found immense joy in cheering for the Green Bay Packers, sharing ACC basketball games with his mother, and experiencing the steadfast companionship of his beloved dog, Kepler.

David was deeply spiritual and spent much of his life studying the world's religions. He believed that God's love extended to all people regardless of faith tradition, race, sexual orientation, or economic circumstance. His inclusive faith shaped the way he treated others—with kindness, dignity, understanding, and respect.

Among David's greatest personal achievements was climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in 2015 alongside his father, whom he considered his best friend. The two shared a love of adventure and the outdoors, creating cherished memories together throughout the years. In 2023, they climbed Mount Le Conte in Great Smoky Mountains National Park and enjoyed many hiking experiences together whenever life allowed.

David is survived by his loving parents, Andrew Wright and Sherry Nelson of Raleigh; his significant other, Ashley Bennett of Fuquay-Varina; his uncles and aunts, David and Barbara Wright of Ridgefield, Washington; Lori Greer and Jeff Jelinek of Portage, Wisconsin; Penny and David Cepiel of San Antonio, Texas; and Bruce Nelson of Galesburg, Illinois. He is also survived by his cousins, Alex (Michael) Cary of Eden Prairie, Minnesota; Chelsea Cepiel of Ames, Iowa; Brandon Cepiel of San Antonio, Texas; and Lauren “Ellie” White.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Arthur and Mary Wright and Dean and Marlene Nelson.

Though David's time on earth was far too brief, his impact on those who knew and loved him will endure. His generous spirit, searching mind, unwavering compassion, and deep faith continue to inspire all whose lives he touched. We take comfort in knowing that he now rests in God's eternal love and peace.

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

A private family interment in the Hayes Barton United Methodist Church columbarium is being planned. A Celebration of Life service will be held on Tuesday, June 23, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. at Hayes Barton United Methodist Church, with a reception immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Hayes Barton United Methodist Church Music Program or the Hayes Barton United Methodist Church Pastors' Discretionary Fund, 2209 Fairview Rd, Raleigh, NC 27608, (919) 832-6435.

Brown-Wynne, 300 Saint Mary's St. Raleigh, NC, is serving the Wright family.