Arlene Brooks Wright

Arlene Brooks Wright, beloved mother, grandmother, sister, and friend, passed away peacefully after a brave battle with Parkinson's disease on November 21, 2025. She was 76 years old.

Born on May 4, 1949 in Elizabeth City, North Carolina, Arlene was the daughter of Louise Hurdle and John Henry Reeves. She grew up with a love of music and performance and often participated in (and won) pageants as well as numerous theatrical and musical productions. Her first love was singing, especially in church, which she did from an early age and continued as an adult.

She was a successful real estate agent for thirty-two years in Norfolk, admired for her dedication, professionalism, and her personal touch with clients, who more than often turned into friends. She will be remembered as someone who always offered a kind word, a helping hand, and a warm smile. She will also be remembered by many for her wonderful sense of humor and quick laughter.
Family was at the heart of Arlene's life. She married Wiliam Randy Wright and they were married for more than thirty years and successfully blended their families to build a home filled with faith and love. She was a loving mother to her sons and daughters in law, and a cherished grandmother to her grandchildren and newly born great grandson. She will be remembered as a true and trusted friend to many. Her family will forever remember her gentle spirit, her wisdom, and her unwavering love.

Arlene gave much of her time to her church, where she sang in the choir and often showcased her vocal talent in Christmas and other special occasions. She was an avid and loyal member of the Virginia Voices for twenty-two years, performing around the country and traveling both within and without the United States for performances including visits to Russia, Scotland, Nova Scotia, and Guatemala. She sang the National Anthem at several sporting events in the Tidewater area and was often honored for her singing abilities.

As a couple, Arlene and Randy enjoyed traveling around the world as Randy's work with city council of Norfolk provided many opportunities to participate in civic activities. Norfolk was important to them and they supported efforts to highlight their city whenever possible.

Arlene is survived by her husband William Randy Wright, sons Roy Douglas Brooks, Jr., Scott Christopher Brooks, and Chad Ryan Brooks, her stepson William "Eddie" Wright; her brothers, Rufus Wayne Reeves and John Henry Reeves, Jr., as well as five grandchildren and one great grandchild. She was preceded in death by her mother, Louise Hurdle, and her father, John Henry Reeves.

A celebration of Arlene's life will be held on December 13, at 11:00 AM at Azalea Baptist Church on 3314 East Little Creek Road, Norfolk, Virginia 23518. Reception to follow. Family and friends are invited to attend. In lieu of flowers, donations in her name may be made to Virginia Voices International at VaVoicesIntl.org.