Sergeant Jackson Payne Wright USMC

Sergeant Jackson Payne Wright, 22, of Huntington, and stationed in Kaneohe, HI, passed away on Saturday, Aug. 20, 2022, at his base. Jackson was born on July 27, 2000, in Fort Wayne. Jackson is survived by his mother, Melissa Forrester-Miller (Jason), of Huntington; and his father, Samuel (Brenda) Wright, of Huntington.

Jackson was a 2018 Huntington North High School graduate. Following graduation Jackson joined the USMC. Jackson's legacy of light followed him all these short years with us, from his crazy and "life of the party" personality, to his deep-souled love and compassion for others, to his multifaceted talents, and his commitment – whether it be the saxophone, distance running, Yu-Gi-Oh card competitions, or golf. Jackson was a goal setter, who stubbornly pursued and pushed himself for the next challenge, little could ever deter him. He grew into a respected leader among his brothers and sisters of the Marine Corps, the rank of Sergeant posthumously bestowed upon him – one last goal achieved. One last victory.

Along with Jackson's parents he is survived his wife, Hailey; daughter, Everleigh, of Seymour, Wisc.; brothers, Aidan (Samantha) Wright, Matt (Jessica) Beal, both of Huntington, Charlie Johnston; sisters, Sarah Miller (Lelia), Huntington, Amanda (Zeth) Kratzer, Warren, Jenna (Adam) Douglas, Markle, Vanessa Hiday, Christine Hiday; maternal grandparents, Ladisla and Joann Forrester, Huntington; and numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles and cousins.

Jackson was preceded in death by his paternal grandparents, John and Mary Wright.

Calling hours will be held on Thursday, Sept. 1, from 2-7 p.m. at Life Church, 900 E. State St., Huntington.

Additional calling hours will be held on Friday, Sept. 2, from 9-11 a.m. with a service beginning at 11 a.m. at Life Church, 900 E. State St., Huntington, with Rev. Mike Smith to officiate.

Burial will follow at Gardens of Memory Cemetery, Marion.

In lieu of flowers, memorials can be made to NAMI, National Alliance of Mental Illness or the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention in care of McElhaney -Hart Funeral Home, 715 N. Jefferson St., Huntington, IN 46750.

Arrangements by McElhaney-Hart Funeral Home in conjunction with Life Church, accompanied by USMC liaison Grissom AFB, and One Warrior. Online condolences: www.mcelhaneyhartfuneralhome.com