Richard Clay Wright

Wright, Richard Clay
69, of Phoenix, AZ, made his transition at home on Mar. 15, 2011 surrounded by family and friends. Clay was born July 15, 1941 in St. Louis, MO to parents Norma Clay Wright and Charles Wright. After serving his Country in Army Intelligence and the Federal Bureau of Narcotics, Clay solidified his career in the insurance industry in underwriting and marketing. Following his years with Allstate, Fireman's Fund and The Hartford, he began teaching at and managing Ford Schools. In 1991 he purchased Ford Schools and continued as President until retirement in Dec. 2006. He was passionate about owning his own business, making a difference in his students' lives, empowering his staff to deliver at the highest level and mentoring his peers. Community service included Boy Scout Leader and Phoenix Airport Navigators. Clay loved being with family and friends and sharing his great stories and humor. He had an avid thirst for knowledge, travel, adventures, entertaining, films, arts and crosswording. He is survived by his best friend and loving wife of 5 years, Jeannie; daughter Marcia Story-Greco (David Greco); son Sean; grandchildren Toby, McKenzie and Dylan (they called him G-Pa); his poodle Sheba; and cousins Dona Wright Calahan and David Wright. Everyone who knew Clay found him to be courageous, engaging, caring and giving of himself. He will forever live in our hearts and memories. His life will be celebrated April 9, 2011, 2 pm at Best Funeral Chapel, 501 E. Dunlap Ave., Phx. Donations may be made to Arizona Council on Compulsive Gambling (he was an advisor and his wife a Board member) or Faust Animal Hospital to aid animal rescue.