Thomas Edgar “Pete” Wright

1932 - 2014

Thomas Edgar "Pete" Wright, 82, died Friday, May 30, 2014, at the Woltz Hospice Home in Dobson, N.C., where he spent his final few days with their compassionate care.
He was born to Tolbert and Robena Sells Wright on March 27, 1932 in the Oldtown section of Galax, Va.
Survivors include his beloved wife of nearly 59 years, Joyce E. Wright of Galax; three children, Tommy and DeeDee, their daughters Hannah Robinson and husband Billy, Kaylah Surratt and husband Clay, Karen Webb and husband Phillip of Galax, daughters Lacy Upchurch and husband Justin of Salisbury, N.C., and Jamie Webb, Myra Dendy and husband Bob and sons Rob, Lucas and Aaron of Lynchburg, Va.; a sister, Mary Harrison; a brother, Joe Wright, both of Galax; four great-grandchildren; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to family he was survived by many lifelong friends and he counted them among his greatest joys. Pete never met a stranger.
Pete lived his life in Galax following a tour of duty as a medic in the Korean War, receiving two Bronze Service Stars and Presidential Unit Citation.
He was a member of Snow Hill Missionary Baptist Church, a Master Mason of Old Town Lodge No. 68, a member of Shriners International, a 32cd degree member of the A&A Scottish Rite of Freemasonry, a member of the Loyal Order of Moose and Scamp Owners International.
He loved to travel, whether it was by car, a four wheel drive or his lifelong love, a motorcycle. Last fall still found him riding his "scooter" through the beautiful Virginia and NC countryside with his friends.
He took his family on many camping trips across the USA sharing his love of adventure, wide-open spaces and majestic mountain views. He had a thirst for knowledge and was constantly reading and learning new things.
The funeral service was held Sunday, June 1, 2014, at 3 p.m. in the Snow Hill Baptist Church with the Rev. Ernie Smith and Elder David Kamoda Jr. officiating. Burial followed in the Snow Hill Cemetery. The family received friends Sunday from 1 p.m. until time for the funeral service at the Snow Hill Baptist Church. Military rites were conducted by the Grayson VFW Post 7726.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to either the Snow Hill Baptist Church, 1423 Snow Hill Road, Galax, Va. 24333, the Woltz Hospice Home, 945 Zephyr Road, Dobson, N.C. 27017 or to the Shriners Children's Hospital.
A guestbook is available online at www.vaughanguynn.com.
Vaughan-Guynn Funeral Home was in charge of arrangements.