Bob Wright Obituary
Obituary published on Legacy.com by Crawford Family Funeral & Cremation Service - Edmond on Sep. 2, 2025.
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Robert Allen "Bob" Wright was born on July 19, 1935, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, to Verna Jeffrey and Lavell Allen Wright. On August 30, 2025, he passed away peacefully at his home in Edmond, surrounded by his loving family. He leaves behind a legacy of enduring love, steadfast faith, and boundless optimism.
Bob attended school in Oklahoma City before transferring as a sophomore to the Oklahoma Military Academy in Claremore, Oklahoma. While there, he lettered in four sports and was honored as the Outstanding High School Athlete. He graduated in 1953 with the rank of Platoon Master Sergeant.
After high school, Bob enrolled at Oklahoma A&M University (now Oklahoma State University), where he was selected for the freshman basketball team under legendary coach Henry Iba. Alongside his time on the court, he pursued one of the university's most demanding academic programs - architecture. After years of intense study and long nights in the design studio, he earned his Bachelor of Architecture in 1958. During his time at OSU, he was also a proud member of Sigma Phi Epsilon fraternity.
Bob began his career with the Oklahoma City architecture firm Caudill Rowlett Scott. He was soon promoted to Associate and transferred to the Houston office, where he helped lead major projects, including the original Space Lab buildings for NASA's Johnson Space Center. He also contributed to projects at Harvard and Duke University. In 1966, Bob returned to Oklahoma City as principal and shareholder of Locke Smith Wright, later known as LWPB. His projects included the former Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building, along with numerous schools, commercial spaces, and public institutions across Oklahoma, Texas, Kansas, and Arkansas. After more than 40 years of service to the firm, Bob "retired" in 2006, though he continued consulting until 2012.
Bob gave generously of his time and talents, serving two terms as President of the Central Oklahoma Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, President of the Oklahoma City Downtown Lions Club, Chairman of fundraising for the AIA golf tournament, and as an assistant coach with the First Tee golf program for underprivileged youth.
Though his professional accomplishments were many, Bob considered his family his greatest achievement. In 1987, he met Carolyn, the love of his life, and they married three years later, blending their six children into one beautiful family. For nearly 35 years of marriage, Bob and Carolyn built a life filled with laughter and devotion.
Lovingly known as "GPop," one of the greatest joys of Bob's life was being surrounded by his 21 grandchildren and 25 great-grandchildren. He treasured every moment spent with them - cheering from the sidelines, celebrating their milestones, or simply being present in their lives. His constant support, warm hugs, and playful spirit left a lasting impact on each of them. They all adored him just as deeply as he loved them.
While his love for Carolyn and his family was beyond measure, Bob also found great joy in a few lifelong passions. An avid golfer and longtime member of The Greens Country Club, he spent countless hours on the course, delighting in both the game and the friendships it brought. A proud OSU Cowboy, he followed his alma mater's teams with enthusiasm. He also loved summers in Colorado, winters in Arizona, and time with his two faithful pups, Bogey and Seve - all of which added richness and joy to a life well lived.
Bob was a bright light to all who knew him. His life was defined by love, integrity, and steadfast faith in God. Though deeply missed, he will be remembered for the way he lived - with a full heart, a generous spirit, and an unwavering devotion to his family.
Bob is survived by his devoted wife, Carolyn, and their six children: Leslie Wright Bravo (Mark), Cathy Wright Lyon (Mike), Jeff Wright, David Duncan (Karen), Sara Duncan Smith (Jay), and Amy Duncan Key (Brett). He is also survived by 21 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, and his sister, Saundra Wright Delgado (Mario).
A Celebration of Life honoring Bob will be held on Wednesday, September 10, at 2:00 p.m. in the chapel at Crossings Community Church, 14600 N. Portland Avenue, Oklahoma City. Please join our family in honoring Bob by wearing OSU colors to celebrate his love for the Cowboys.
In lieu of flowers please consider donating to Warriors Rest Foundation or the Oklahoma Children's Cancer Association