William Douglas Wright

William (Bill) Douglas Wright passed away unexpectedly on January 7, 2021. He was a man of strong faith and it gives us comfort that he did not fear dying because he knew Jesus would be waiting with open arms. Bill was born on November 17, 1948, in New Orleans, LA. and moved to Dallas with his family when he was 2. He graduated from Woodrow Wilson High School in 1966 and SMU in 1971 and played football for both schools. Bill credited his experiences in athletics for helping shape the man he was to become and he treasured the many friends that he made among his teammates. After graduating from SMU Bill obtained a Doctorate of Law at Texas Tech University and a Masters of Tax Law at New York University School of Law. After completing his education he clerked for the United States Tax Court for two years. Bill and family then returned to Dallas, where he took a position with the law firm Shank Irwin Conant Williamson and Grevelle. Upon the closure of the law firm, he opened a solo practice with an emphasis on international and gas law. Bill traveled overseas extensively during this time. He was fond of saying that he had been to every continent but one. Bill was a member of Central Christian Church for many years. He served the church in many capacities: youth group leader, deacon, elder, chairman of elders and chairman of the board. His most meaningful contribution to the church was as teacher of the Shank Class for almost 20 years. However, Bill’s greatest pride and joy was his family. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, son-in- law, brother-in-law, uncle and cousin. He is survived by his wife Shari Payne Wright, whom he loved unreservedly for 49 years. He is also survived by his two daughters, Elise Untersee and Leigh Ann Deloach, his son-in-law Greg Deloach; grandchildren Stephen, Corry, and Collin Untersee, Owen, Claire and Payne Deloach. He is also survived by his father and mother-in-law Frank and Jane Payne, brothers and sisters-in-law Corry and Susie Payne and Nancy and Mike Mayberry, numerous cousins, nieces and nephews. And last but not least, his faithful and loving dogs Carlie and Chloe. His favorite description of heaven is that it is where all the dogs that ever loved you run to greet you.

Services to be held at Sparkman Hillcrest Funeral Home at 3 pm January 13

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the American Heart Association or to the SPCA