Ernie Wright

Ernest Theodore "Ernie" Wright, age 74, of Jefferson City, Mo., passed away Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Capital Region Medical Center surrounded by his loving family.
Ernie was born July 6, 1950, in Fulton, Mo., the son of Ernest Schroers and Lillian Dean (Terrell) Wright. He was married on June 17, 1972, in Fulton, Mo., to Becky Jean LaFevers. They shared 47 years together before her passing in 2020.
He was a lifelong resident of the central Missouri area. He attended North Callaway High School in Kingdom City where he played on the football team and graduated in 1969.
Ernie was a talented mechanic who found joy in his work at the autobody shop. He spent over 40 years painting vehicles at Brooms Auto Service and Body Magic, where his passion for cars truly shined.
A loyal Kansas City Chiefs fan, Ernie could often be found coaching from his living room during games. He also loved watching NASCAR and attending local drag races, where he served as a pit crew member for his cousin. His love for cars extended beyond work and hobbies-his most prized possession was his Official 1978–2008 Black Pace Car Corvette.
Ernie cherished his annual family vacations, which took him to Disneyland, Washington, D.C., the Speedway Museum, and the Corvette Museum in Kentucky. Getaways to Branson created lasting memories of live shows, the Dixie Stampede, and the Titanic exhibit.
Family meant everything to Ernie. He loved spending time with his grandchildren and, though he had a rough exterior, those who knew him well saw his kind heart and tender spirit. He was meticulous in everything he did and had a signature style-always in cowboy boots. He also had a fondness for old Western movies and TV shows, which fit right in with his classic charm.
Survivors include his daughter, Amanda Braman (Rod) of Jefferson City, Mo.; two grandchildren, Justin Aaron Braman and Shyann Lee Braman; and two sisters, Lee Flowers (Mike) of Rolla, Mo., and Susan Heath (Vernon) of Jefferson City.
He was preceded in death by his wife, Becky; his parents; and two sisters, Sherrye Nilson and Paula Sue Wright.
Visitation will be held from 11:00 am until 12:00 pm, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, at Freeman Mortuary.
A Celebration of Life service will begin at 12:00 pm, Tuesday, April 29, 2025, in the Freeman Chapel, with the Reverend Rick Yoder officiating. Entombment will follow at the Mausoleum of Hawthorn Memorial Gardens.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions are suggested to the endowment fund of the Ebenezer Baptist Church Cemetery, 6841 State Road Z, Fulton, MO 65251 or via Venmo: ebcjohn316.
Funeral arrangements are under the care of Freeman Mortuary, 915 Madison St, Jefferson City, MO 65101.