Obituary of Jeffrey Lynn Wright Sr.

Jeffrey Lynn Wright, Sr.

Aug. 3, 1942 - Apr. 2, 2024

 

Jeff's 81-year-long life journey began in Zanesville, OH (Go Bucks!) and a childhood move to Cheyenne, WY sparked a lifelong fascination with trains, the “Big Boy” steam locomotives being his favorite. His family eventually settled down in Tacoma, WA where he met his wife, graduated from Lincoln High School, worked for many years at Pioneer Business Forms and spent the rest of his life laying down roots.

 

Jeff’s love for all things automotive turned into a passion for drag racing that stayed with him to the very end. He raced his souped-up family car, a 1964 Ford Galaxie 500XL before he finished the meticulous build of his Austin Gasser in 1970. “Fatboy’s Folly” was always a crowd favorite, especially at his home track at Puyallup Raceway. He was proud that he never spent one dime from his regular 40-hour paycheck on the car, only ever using the money he earned working overtime. Jeff's dedication and love for the sport were unwavering and he eagerly shared his experiences and memories with everyone willing to listen.

 

Jeff jumped into the jogging craze in the mid-to-late 1970s. His competitive nature pushed him from barely being able to make it around the block to running 26.2-mile marathons, six of which he finished in less than three hours. His love for running led him to start a youth track club, the "South Hill Striders." One of his greatest joys was helping kids reach their full potential and he was thrilled to coach many from his team at the Junior Olympics.

 

He was preceded in death by his wife of 45 years, Patricia Ann (Riggs) Wright, his son Jeffrey Lynn Wright, Jr., and his "Little Buddy" Coco (his teacup Yorkie).

 

He leaves behind his daughter Christine (Wright) Kiele, grandchildren Amanda Hohbein, Darren Titus (wife Jessica), Jordan Titus, and great-grandchildren Xander DeWitt and Brady Titus.

 

He was an amazing father, loving grandfather, wonderful uncle, and unforgettable friend, and he will be greatly missed by every person whose life he touched. There are no plans for a service at this time, but the family would like to have a barbecue in his honor this summer.