Jim Wright

James Robert Wright, Jr., 73, of Lewisberry, left us all too soon on our nation’s birthday—July 4th—at Holy Spirit Medical Center, Camp Hill, PA. Born on March 26, 1952, in Union, Mississippi, he was the son of the late Jenell (Jenkins) Eldridge and James R. Wright, Sr.

Growing up in Neshoba County, MS, Jim started out in the trucking industry and never looked back. He first worked for Western Auto, where he also began his career-long association with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters. Later, a position with Pilot Freight Carriers took him to Richmond, VA, and eventually to South Central PA. He’d wrap up his professional career with New Penn Motor Express in Camp Hill, PA, retiring just over a decade ago. Over his lifetime, he logged millions of miles on the road as a professional truck driver.

In 1981, Jim met Deb, the love of his life, and within five months, they put down roots in Lewisberry, where they would raise a family. A natural athlete in his own right, Jim poured himself into coaching his son’s youth baseball and football teams. He made it a point to go on family vacations, enjoying annual beach trips up and down the East Coast. One of his favorite places was the hunting cabin in Clearfield County, where he spent endless hours riding four-wheelers, hunting, and sitting around the campfire with family and friends. When he wasn’t at the cabin, he loved nothing more than riding his Harley with friends, traveling through countless states with good company by his side. Whether it was a short ride through the countryside or a cross-country trip, Jim believed there was no better way to see the world. Those memories, both on and off the road, were among the ones he cherished most and carried with him for a lifetime.

Jim and Deb attended Christian Life Assembly, where they found not only a place of worship but a community of faith and friendship. In retirement, they embraced life as snowbirds, making RV trips to Florida each winter. Jim enjoyed golfing in the “old man” league at Valley Green Golf Course. Despite his tough exterior and the fact that he spoke his mind, those who knew him well saw his softer side—he loved hard and without reservation. He treasured time with his family, especially his grandkids, and made it a point to send them off on their first day of school each year. His loyal English bulldog, Henry, will miss him terribly, and the Crimson Tide fan base will have to cheer a little louder this year in his absence. This patriot lived life full throttle and on his own terms. He will be deeply missed.

Surviving Jim is his wife and best friend of 45 years, Deb Wright; a son, Jamie Wright (Nikki) of Charleston, SC; grandchildren, Taylor Berry (Ben) of Pelahatchie, MS, and Aiden and Addison Wright of Charleston, SC; great-grandchildren, Adlee and Birdie; a sister, Teresa Boles (Alan) of Safety Harbor, FL; and a niece, Alana Elliott (Scotty) of Clearwater, FL, along with her children, Katie Scott and Will Major.

A Celebration of Life will be held at 11:00 AM on Thursday, July 17th, 2025, at Christian Life Assembly, 2645 Lisburn Rd, Camp Hill, in the Youth Center Sanctuary. A luncheon and time of visitation will immediately follow in the church—all are welcome.

In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the Wounded Warrior Project, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, or Christian Life Assembly Church. All donations may be made in memory of James Wright, Jr.