Wright

William K. Wright, born in Pittsburgh, Pa. on July 8, 1934 to Grace Kinley and William (Bus) Wright, lived and received all of his public schooling (as did his younger sisters Jean and Carol) in Pittsburgh until he left home to attend Penn State College following high school graduation in 1952. Faced with imminent drafting into the Korean War, he registered with a local American Legion post for a 1953 Congressional appointment to the United States Military Academy, where he successfully obtained and passed all the admission requirements. Graduating four years later with a lifetime of intimate memories, Bill received his Army Ranger Tab and Airborne qualification. He served proudly in the Signal Corps with assignments in Europe, Lebanon and the United States. Following seven years on active duty, an MBA degree from Northeastern University and a marriage in 1958 with three children, Bill began a civilian career in 1964 that carried through to the time of his death with a kaleidoscope of business and personal challenges. Over the years he either owned, was employed by, or consulted with domestic corporations in defense, electronics, graphic arts, health care, mortgage banking, business and real estate development. He also worked with an international executive volunteer firm in Sri Lanka in the fields of insurance, finance, and packaging. In every business situation he was supported greatly with the disciplined essence of his “West Point Experience.” In following years, Bill was blessed with a wonderful new wife, Anne Gready from Houston, and a total of four children: Patti Lapp, Steve Wright, Tracey Madeleine Rice, Linda Simmons and husband Doug Simmons, 10 grandchildren, and a recent great grandchild, Viviana Rae. Furthermore, he had the opportunity to serve others through his church affiliations as a deacon and Bible teacher, as a substitute teacher in the local school system, as a private mentor for children in academic need, and as an adjunct professor in business for Belhaven University. However, his greatest blessing was his later-in-life decision to accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior of his life – to God belongs all the glory! Thank you West Point for taking him on “the road less traveled” and for instilling in his life the endless virtues of “duty, honor and country.” It was Bill’s privilege to grip hands with all his alma mater brothers, and to honor “The Corps” in his life. It may be said of Bill, “Well done thou good and faithful servant.” Bill died Nov. 19, 2016. A private burial was conducted at Memorial Oaks Cemetery in Houston. A memorial service will be held Saturday, Dec. 3, 2016 at 11 a.m. at Second Baptist Church, West Campus, Williams House, 19449 Katy Freeway in Houston. In lieu of flowers, please consider an offering to Flatonia Baptist Church Building Fund, P.O. Box 305, Flatonia, Texas 78941.