Warren Irvin Wright

Warren Irvin Wright of Rocky Mount, VA passed away on December 30, 2011 after a lengthy illness and complications from congestive heart failure and diabetes. He was born June 17, 1931 and was preceded in death by his parents, Bluford W. Wright, Sr. and Della Cooper Wright; and sisters, Marie Hudson and Louise Richardson. Warren is survived by his forever sweetheart and devoted wife, Shirley Dodson Wright who has cherished their life together for 58 years. Also surviving is their son, Michael Warren (Pete) Wright and wife, Cindy of Thomasville, NC; and daughter, Teresa Robertson and husband, Brent of Roanoke. Warren’s love for his grandchildren was immeasurable and unconditional; they are Michael Adam Wright of Troutman, NC, Kendall Robertson of Charlottesville (UVA), and Evan Robertson of Roanoke. Other surviving family members are his brother, B. W. Wright, Jr. and wife Brenda of Rocky Mount; and sister, Ruth Nichols of Ferrum; brothers-in-law, Jay Lee Hudson and Lane Richardson of Ferrum; brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law, Hazel Bowling, Dan and Ellan Dodson, Roger and Judy Dodson, Linda and John Taylor, Joyce and Don Scott; and numerous nieces, nephews, their spouses and children, all who loved their Uncle Irvin. Warren proudly served in the U.S. Army 1952-54 and was selected to be a member of The Old Guard with duties that included guarding the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, as well as President Eisenhower and other military elite. With solemn dignity, he participated in more than 200 burials in the Arlington National Cemetery. After completing his service, he returned to Franklin County and entered the profession of automobile body repair, eventually owning and operating his own business, Warren’s Body Shop, with the assistance of faithful employees/friends, Greg Layman, Justin Burke and others. A member and former Deacon of Story Creek Baptist Church, Warren faithfully served and attended as long as his health permitted; he was also a charter member of the Waidsboro Ruritan Club. He enjoyed watching sports of all kinds, especially NASCAR as he rooted for Pete, Adam and their respective teams. Warren also enjoyed special times with his family, at home or traveling to the beaches or mountains. The service to honor his life and memory will be held at Flora Funeral Chapel 2 p.m. Monday with Rev. J. Larry Holland officiating. Interment will follow at Maple Grove cemetery with military rites. In lieu of flowers, please consider memorial gifts to the Franklin County Rescue Squad or Rocky Mount Fire Department. The family also gratefully acknowledges the concern and care by the Hospice staff, especially Kitty and Janice. The family will receive friends 5-7 p.m. Sunday at Flora Funeral Service & Cremation Center, Rocky Mount.