Donald E. Wright

With profound sadness, we announce the passing of Donald E. Wright Jr., a distinguished attorney, husband, father, grandfather and cherished member of the Erie community, who left this world on February 2, 2026, at the age of 77.

He was born on May 10, 1948, in Erie, Pennsylvania, to the late Donald E. and Ruth (Geddis) Wright Sr.

Donald graduated from Strong Vincent High School in 1966, where he was a proud Colonel and Student Council President. Donald obtained his bachelor’s degree from the University of Massachusetts and earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Akron School of Law, where he was a proud member of Moot Court and Scribes and served as Editor in Chief of the University of Akron Law Review. Donald practiced law with Knox McLaughlin Gornall & Sennett, P.C. for over 40 years, concentrating on counseling government entities regarding complex public issues. He led the firm’s Governmental Practice Group for many years, including its annual Municipal Law Symposium for elected officials, public executives, and their professional advisors. A respected figure in the legal field, Donald’s qualifications included admissions to the Pennsylvania Bar, U.S. District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the U.S. Supreme Court, and the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit. He held affiliations with the Erie County Bar Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association, American Bar Association, and the Pennsylvania School Board Solicitors Association. He was extremely proud to have served on the Disciplinary Board of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania for six years. He always brought a smile to everyone who encountered his larger than life personality. Donald was an instrumental part of the Knox’s history and success.

Beyond his remarkable professional achievements, he was proud to achieve the rank of Eagle Scout and was an enthusiastic Cleveland sports fan. Donald cherished his time spent at his Fort Myers Beach home, where he enjoyed the company of friends. He and his wife held a passion for boating and were able to enjoy the entire Great Lakes Region.

Donald was involved in his faith and community, serving as an usher, deacon, and trustee for First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant and as counsel to the School District of the City of Erie, the Millcreek Township School District, the Erie Housing Authority and the Erie Municipal Airport Authority. His memberships extended to various clubs, including the Erie Club, Erie Yacht Club, Presque Isle Yacht Club, Cascade Club, Falcons Club, and American Legion Post 771. Donald is survived by his loving wife of 53 ½ years, Gayle (Melms) Wright and sons, Jeffrey Wright and his children, Roark Wright and Harper Wright, and Casey Wright. Friends are invited to call at Burton Quinn Scott Cremation & Funeral Services, Inc. Downtown on Sunday, February 8, 2026, from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM and 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM. A 10:00 AM funeral service will be held on Monday at First Presbyterian Church of the Covenant located at 250 W 7th Street. Burial in Erie Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the United Way of Erie County, 650 East Ave., Erie, PA 16503.

He will be missed by all.