Alva Arthur Wright

Alva Arthur Wright, 86, of West Mayfield, passed away Sunday, June 5, 2011 while residing at Providence Care Center, Beaver Falls. He was born May 1, 1925 in Butler County, PA, son of the late Joseph and Ruth (Smith) Wright. Alva proudly served his country with the U.S. Army during WWII. He retired from Babcock and Wilcox after over 30 years of service. Alva was the last surviving, founding member of Edgewood Baptist Church.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife Gertrude in 1976 and later his wife Joy in 2008; a great grandson: Devin; his son-in-law: Mike Henry; brother: Vance; and three sisters: Mary Ellen, Gladys and Vinnie.

He is survived by three sons and daughters-in-law: Joseph and Yuchong Wright, Sr., West Mayfield; Rodney and Cindy McGee, Sr., West Mayfield; David and Paula McGee, Sr., Patterson Township; two daughters and a son-in-law: Jane Henry, Rochester; Dawn and Bill Marcello, Chippewa Township; 15 grandchildren and 16 great grandchildren; one brother: Harvey Wright, Ellwood City; and his sister: Hazel Wilson, Ellwood City; as well as nieces and nephews.

Friends will be received Tuesday, June 7, 2011, from 2 to 4 p.m. and 6 to 8 p.m. in the SAUL-GABAUER FUNERAL HOME, INC., 273 Route 68, Rochester (adjacent to Sylvania Hills Memorial Park Mausoleum). His funeral service will be held 11 a.m., Wednesday, June 8, 2011, in the funeral home with Pastor Mike Coleman, officiating. Private interment will follow in Sylvania Hills Memorial Park.

If desired, memorial contributions may be directed to the Edgewood Baptist Church, 430 Edgewood Road, Beaver Falls, PA 15010. Online condolences may be offered at www.saul-gabauer.com.