William E. Wright

1947 - 2023

William E Wright

December 24, 1947 - November 17, 2023

Charlotte, North Carolina - William "Bill" Wright of Charlotte died Nov. 17 of apparent heart failure. He was born Dec. 24, 1947 in Kimball, W.Va., to Charles and Pauline Wright. Bill grew up in Tarrytown, N.Y., where his father was the business manager of the Linden Court estate of tobacco heiress Mary Duke Biddle. Bill enjoyed having the run of the place when Mrs. Biddle was residing elsewhere, and once met Gregory Peck and Hubert Humphrey when they helicoptered in for a meeting with the philanthropist.

Bill came south in his teens to Charlotte to visit his sister, Kay. He stayed, enrolling at UNCC and enlisting in the U.S. Marine Corps. He then enjoyed success in sales for Dun & Bradstreet before starting a second career in property management for Cline & Co. and his own firm, Longview Association Management.

Although married several times, Bill had no children. Survivors include niece Sharon Reilly, of Scottsdale, Ariz., nephew Jay Wrigley of the Dominican Republic; and nephews Wes and Brad Wright of Asheville. Also surviving are sister-in-law Janna Wright of Asheville and nephew Dave Treweek of New Smyrna Beach, Fla. For many years, Bill was the stepfather of Jeff and Steve Underwood of Waxhaw.

Bill had the gift of gab and would easily engage strangers in conversation. He loved to tell jokes and flirt. Bill was a friend to many, and was always there to help them. During the last several years, he became a regular pickleball player at the Cornwell Center and at Freedom Park. He was quick to compliment a good shot by an opponent and was generous with line calls. Play was often followed by lunch at the Laurel Market, where the fun continued.

A memorial service will be held at a later date.