Obituary published on Legacy.com by Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Homes & Crematory - Newark on Aug. 20, 2025.
Jeffrey L. "Jeff" Wright, age 68, of St. Georges, DE, passed away peacefully on Sunday, August 17, 2025, surrounded by his loving family.
Born in Bloomsburg, PA, on June 19, 1957, Jeff was the son of the late John Leonard and Thalia Isabelle (Redline) Wright. He built a proud career as a driver-salesman with Pepsi-Cola, where he worked for more than 40 years before retiring in 2015. His strong work ethic and outgoing personality left a lasting impression on his coworkers and customers alike.
Outside of work, Jeff was a man who lived life fully and cherished simple pleasures. He loved days spent on the water boating and fishing, and time at the beach, whether in Delaware, Maryland, or Florida. Jeff especially enjoyed summers in Ocean City, where memories were made with family on the boat, at the beach, and gathered around the table together.
Jeff was a natural coach both on and off the field, spending many years guiding and encouraging young athletes. A proud Philadelphia sports fan, he rarely missed the chance to watch a game and loved cheering on his children and grandchildren in their own sports and activities. He enjoyed traveling with Rita, his lifelong companion, and together they shared countless adventures. In his younger years, Jeff spent time bowling, and throughout his life he carried a passion for classic cars, often working on them and even restoring his own. He enjoyed spending time outdoors with family and friends, and even just a few weeks ago was at the beach visiting some of his favorite places.
Family meant everything to Jeff. He treasured gatherings at home, especially watching his seven grandchildren play in the pool and the yard, and he loved to hang out with his beloved grand dog, Deuce. Known for his sense of humor, lively spirit, and ability to fix just about anything, from a stubborn garage door to a tough day, Jeff was happiest when surrounded by those he loved. His great taste in music and his quick wit will be remembered by all who knew him.
Above all, Jeff was a loving husband. He and Rita were married as teenagers at age 17, and together they recently celebrated 51 wonderful years of marriage. He loved his wife dearly and their devotion to each other was an inspiration to all who knew them.
In addition to his parents, Jeff was preceded in death by his siblings, Jane Stahl and Robert Wright. He is survived by his devoted wife, Rita M. (Fairchild) Wright; his children, Stacy Edwards (Richard, Jr.) and Elaine Fielding (Todd Justus); siblings, Jack Wright, Thomas Wright, Theresa Porter, and Kay Oakes; grandchildren, Alison LaVere, Noelle Edwards, Gabrielle Kowalski, Maria Fields, and Angelina Edwards; great-grandchildren, Julian, Teddy, Norah, Silas, Jack, Atlas, and Sophie; and his loyal "grand dog," Deuce.
A visitation for family and friends will be held from 9:30 am until 11 am on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, at Spicer-Mullikin Funeral Home, 121 West Park Place,
Newark, DE, where a memorial service will begin at 11 am. Interment will be held privately.
Jeff will be remembered as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, coach, and friend. His legacy of love, laughter, and family devotion will live on through all who were fortunate enough to know him.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in Jeff's memory to Humane Animal Partners, 455 Stanton Christiana Road,
Newark, DE 19713 or online by clicking here.