Adeline B. Wright

In the early hours of Monday, September 9, 2024, with her daughters by her bedside, God welcomed home his faithful servant, Adeline Belle Lee Wright.

Adeline was born in Montvale, VA on January 25, 1930, to the late Ezra C. and Frances P. (Jennings) Lee. She was the third of five girls born to this union. She was educated in the Bedford County School System where she graduated with honors. Raised in a Christian home, Adeline accepted Christ as an early teen and was an active member at Montvale First Baptist Church where she served as a Junior Usher and Secretary of the Sunday School.

After marrying and relocating to Roanoke, she became the proud and loving mother of two daughters, Deborah and Cheryl. She continued her faith walk when she joined the Pilgrim Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Carl Gill. Over the 60 years of membership, she was always active in supporting the church. She taught Good News Bible Class for many years, and she was a long-time member of the Senior Usher Board and Progressive Adult Club where she served as President for many years. Adeline also served as Church Clerk and President of the President’s Council for 23 years, retiring in 2017. Adeline received several honors from the church as well, including Senior Citizen Queen in 1999 and Woman Of the Year in 2004.

Adeline also excelled in her professional and civic life. In 1966, she began a rewarding career with Total Action Against Poverty. During her 30-year tenure, she progressed from Teacher Assistant to Center Director while she continued furthering her education at North Carolina A&T State University. Nurturing and shaping the hearts and minds of hundreds of pre-school children was a passion and calling for Adeline. Many days she would arrive home from work with a pre-schooler in tow who was still waiting for a parent to pick them up.  

In spite of having a full plate of family, church, and work, Adeline found time to be active in civic organizations as well, most notably the MB Social Club where she served as President for many years.

 Adeline leaves an indelible legacy of faith, selflessness, and leadership. She is preceded in death by her parents and three sisters, Margaret Wheeler, Beatrice Penn, and Mildred Hopson. She leaves to cherish her memory her loving daughters, Deborah (James Davis) and Cheryl (Coleman Russ); sister, Shirley Johnson Taylor; a host of devoted nieces, nephews, and cousins; and an adopted daughter, Darlene. A funeral service will be held Tuesday, September 17, 2024 11:00AM at Pilgrim Baptist Church. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at the church. Friends may visit at Serenity on Monday from 2-5PM for viewing.  The interment will be held in Old Dominion Memorial Gardens.  Arrangements by Serenity Funeral Home and Cremation Service.