James May "Jim" Wright

James May Wright was known as Jim, although when he was growing up, he was known affectionately as Jimmy to his family and friends. Jim left this world on January 25, at the age of 84. Jim's journey through life was marked by a commitment to faith, family, and service to his community and country.

Born in the west Texas town of Alpine on February 22, 1941, he was surrounded by the love of his parents, Dr. Joel Ellis Wright and Onie Elizabeth May Wright, both of whom preceded him in death. His life was enriched by the camaraderie and support of his siblings: Betsey Wright, Joe Wright, Ben Wright, and Esther Wright Emery. Jim's own family began with his beloved wife, Marilyn Brietzke Wright, who passed before him, leaving a legacy of love through their daughters, Laurette Bailey Krumm, who sadly also preceded him, and Marianne Bailey Willms and her husband, Gordon.

The joy of his life extended to his granddaughters, Heather Ann Willms, Amanda Marilyn Barrett and husband Chad, Olivia Laurette Willms, and Michaela May Sonke and husband Scott. He cherished every moment with his great-grandchildren, Sophia Kay Barrett, Henry James Barrett, Amelia Marilyn Sonke, and Everett David Sonke.

Jim graduated from Alpine High School with the class of 1959. He continued his education at Sul Ross State College and at the University of Texas in Austin where he earned a bachelor's degree in mathematics. He was an Air Force veteran and served in the Strategic Missile Squadron as a Missile Launch Officer on Atlas F Missiles at Dyess AFB in Texas and on Minute Man Missiles in underground silos at Grand Forks AFB in North Dakota.

Jim's professional life was dedicated to the banking industry in San Antonio, Texas. He participated in an executive program designed for banking professionals at Southern Methodist University. His tenure in the banking industry included leadership at National Bank of Commerce, Resolution Trust Corporation, and finally Wells Fargo Bank before retirement.

As a boy, Jim was active in Boy Scouting and attained the rank of Eagle Scout. He was able to attend Boy Scout Jamboree. He enthusiastically embraced his hobby as an amateur (aka ham) radio operator from the age of 16. He held the call sign K5CDT for 68 years, using his skills to aid others as an Emergency Responder for the American Red Cross. His dedication to his country was further demonstrated through 40 years of membership in the American Legion.

A man of deep Christian faith, Jim lived his beliefs through action. He served as a Sunday School teacher at St. Mark's Episcopal Church, a member of Men in Mission, and a lay reader at Zion Lutheran Church.

He enjoyed camping with his family when the children were young and exploring National Parks and Historic sites by car or by river cruises. He grew up with dogs and enjoyed having dogs as family pets as an adult.

In his later years, Jim found immense joy in supporting his granddaughters in their various activities and relished the simple pleasure of spending time with his great-grandchildren. His selfless, faith-filled, and generous spirit was a source of inspiration to others.

Today, we celebrate Jim Wright, who was a true servant of God, a loving family man, a dedicated big brother and a steadfast friend.