Charles Wright

Born September 20, 1935, in Covington, Va., Charlie was the son of the late Luther and Leona Wright. He came from humble beginnings with a love of family, strong work ethic, and warmly mischievous sense of humor that he carried with him throughout his life.

Charlie graduated from Covington High School and later from the Newport News Shipyard Apprentice School. He then served his country by joining the Army for one term. He returned to Newport News Shipyard after earning an honorable discharge and retired in 1997 after a 40-plus year career where colleagues respected his leadership, hard work, and dedication to his employees along with his incredible sense of humor. One of his biggest stories he always told with his spectacular grin is how he started his career at the Shipyard building the USS Enterprise and then retired as the ship returned for overhaul.

In 1957, he married his childhood sweetheart, Shelby Jean Schumaker. Together, they shared a beautiful union of 66 years and three children.

Charlie was a quiet man speaking only when spoken to, but the words he uttered bellowed great significance. He enjoyed reading, creating art through crochet, working in the yard, cheering on the Washington Commanders, NASCAR, and supporting his children in their many activities and careers.

Charlie will be remembered as the gentle giant. A tall man with a generous heart, he was a devoted husband and loving father whose steadfast love for his wife set a lasting example for his family.

Charlie is survived by his son, Robert "Bobby" Wright, daughter Julie Wright Carroll (Chuck), granddaughter Amanda Plougher, and great-grandson Adam Lewis.

He was preceded in death by his parents Luther and Leona "Bettie" Wright, his wife Shelby Wright, and daughter Cathy Rowland.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial contributions be made to The Apprentice School Foundation in support of scholarships and educational opportunities for future generations of shipbuilders. Donations may be made at https://www.tasfd.org/take-action