Kenneth Wayne Wright

“Celebrating a Wonderful Life” Mr. Kenneth Wayne Wright was a very positive and engaging personality who thoroughly enjoyed people and having fun. Always one to engage individuals in a conversation, he was quick to bring humor to the discussion which made him well liked by all who talked with him. A precocious and talented man, Kenneth was the only son born from the union of Patricia and George Wright, now deceased. He leaves his loving wife Theresa of 39 years and his cherished daughter Cheri, to mourn his passing. Also mourning his death are his beloved sister Sheryl and brother-in-law Avon Rollins. Kenneth was born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee where he completed his elementary and high school education. A gifted student, he attended East Tennessee State University before joining the US Army in 1977 and beginning a career in “Intelligence”. During his time at ETSU, he joined Omega Psi Phi Fraternity. True to the Fraternity and his brothers, he proved himself to be a proud and dedicated life-long member. Being an Omega man was a “life style” for Kenneth. The Fraternity was a natural fit for his warm hearted nature and good humored gregariousness. Competitive by nature, Kenneth’s passion was playing “Bid Whist”, a popular card game. He and his wife Theresa regularly participated in Bid Whist tournaments and hosted card games at their home. Based on study and practice, he became a skilled Bid Whist card player, winning many awards, trophies and accolades from competitors. Of his many activities and interests, Bid Whist card playing was truly his passion. Often traveling to distant cities, both he and Theresa received many hours of enjoyment from this pastime. This was one activity where his serious side showed through to others during his card playing. He and Theresa were members of the fabulous “Otown Players Bid Whist Club.” In addition, Kenneth was an avid boxing fan who liked to attend live events. He enjoyed the competition inherent in both activities, card playing and boxing exhibitions. Of course, his beloved Tennessee Volunteer Football Team was another central part of his sports and competitive focus. Being born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, made it easy for him to cheer for his hometown team. Kenneth was a bright and vibrant star in our lives. His engaging manner, “quick wit” and ability to converse with anyone on a variety of topics helped him make friends throughout his world travels during his twenty-plus year military career. His military service to his Country was both illustrious and distinguished. Instructing soldiers was part of his responsibility in the military. This is an area where he excelled and was subsequently recognized for his contributions. Kenneth truly understood the value and power of words and being an effective communicator as evidenced by his thoughtful writings, where he often shared advice to others. Key among his personal characteristics was his fondness for neatness and wearing stylish clothing; and, oh yes, keeping his car sparkling bright and clean. Other loving family members mourning his death include: a son Devon Jones, a granddaughter Allison McCord-Jones and a great granddaughter Taylor Smith. In-laws: Hasseltine Howard, mother-n-law; Norman Howard (Nancy) brother-in-law; Yulanda Griffith, sister-in-law; Alphenis Howard, brother-in-law; and Janice Cash (Fred), sister-in-law.