Willie C. Wright's Obituary
Willie Wright Obituary
Willie C. Wright 87, of Chicago Heights, Illinois passed away peacefully at home on January 29, 2025 surrounded by family members. Willie was born to Moses and Elizabeth Wright at home in Slaughter, MS.
Affectionately known to family members as, "TWO", Willie was one of twelve children born to Moses Wright. All of his siblings preceded him in death, except for Thelma Edwards, and Robert Wright. Willie also had two daughters that preceded him in death: Brenda Wright (April 2010) and Beverly Wright (November 2024).
Dad grew up in Money, MS. At the age of 18, Dad decided to join the Army. Dad went into the Army, proud to wear the uniform and to make his parents proud. While in the service, Dad received a message from Red Cross stating that his mother had a stroke. Dad said he knew that was not true, and he called home and was told that Emmett Till, his cousin, was taken from his father's home. After Emmett was found, Dad came home for the funeral.
Years later, while visiting with family members in Summit, IL. Dad met and began dating Rose M. Kelly. During a brief courtship, Willie C. Wright and Rose Marie Kelly were married. Willie and Rose were stationed in Germany, and Japan. After Dad toured for 8 years active duty and in 1967-
Willie and Rose settled down in Harvey, IL., and to chis union eight children were born: Kathy Howell of Riverdale, IL, Annie Jackson (Vincent) of Glenwood, IL, Beverly Wright (daughter) preceded him in death (November 6, 2024), Wilma Stewart (Donald) of Chicago Heights, IL, Willie C. Wright Jr., Twins: Kimberly Wright of Hammond, IN, and Karen Wright of Schaumburg, IL, and Brenda Rose Wright (Deceased Daughter August 2010), Eva Frazier (Kenyatte), and Willis T. Wright.
Dad remained in the Army Reserve for 26 years. Dad enjoyed his family and many cousins whom he would often visit in Summit, IL. Dad would visit with family members and talk for hours at a time with his brothers, sisters, and his cousins. Dad worked for Union Pacific for ro years in East St. Louis; and retired at the age of 58. Dad couldn't sit still long, so he then briefly worked as a Security Guard for Guardian Security in Blue Island, IL. for 3 years to keep himself busy. Dad retired again after 3 years working as a security guard.
Dad enjoyed his retirement, he drove back and forth to visit with his children and grandchildren from time to time. If any of his children were in need, Dad was there. Dad wanted all his children to know how much he loved them all, and always tried to help anyone in any way he could. Dad would come to town and line up his grandchildren, and hand all of them money. (Lol)
He was truly a good grandfather, and for Christmas, would give money for gifts for his grandchildren. He would treat his children and grandchildren to Golden Coral; out to breakfast, lunch, or dinner when he was in town. Dad may not have said, "I love you" all the time, but he would show you in the things he would do for you. He was the absolute best Dad and Granddad.
In 2018 Willie's health took a turn when he was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colon Cancer. Dad made it through the Cancer, but the surgery alone took a toll on his body. Dad had a brief stay in the hospital once at the V.A. for 2 days, and I couldn't visit due to work. When I came to pick him up, he said, "I thought you left me." I said with tears in my eyes, "Dad I will NEVER leave your side."
While hospitalized briefly in November of 2023, Dad contracted COVID while in the hospital. After Dad returned home his speech became very limited due to COVID, "Good Morning", and "I love you." was about all Dad could say after contracting COVID. I ALWAYS told Dad how much all of his children and grandchildren loved him, and he would say, "I love you too."
Dad would start his day by sitting in his favorite recliner and watching the news. His grandson Cedric would put Dad in his recliner, and Dad would then salute him every time. In November of 2024, he could no longer give that salute, as his earthly body grew tired. On January 29, 2025, Dad passed away peacefully in his sleep; a few minutes before I went to check on him, like I did every morning. Dad, we love you; and we will miss you immensely. Thank you for being there for all of your children, and grandchildren; and great-great grands. This is not Good-bye to you Dad; this is a Celebration of your life.
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