Gary L. WRIGHT

News Death Notice

WRIGHT, Gary L. Apparently I died on Thursday, June 18, 2015. What a marvelous life I had. I was lucky. Now for my final literary masterpiece. I was born in Springfield, Ohio to Robert (Bob) and Roma J (Peterson) Wright. How fortunate was I to have such great parents. My childhood and teen years were filled with private lessons (piano, organ, swimming, and tennis), many clubs and organizations, speech competitions, hobbies, summers at Lakewood and great vacations. I was a professional organist and pianist until my retirement in 2009. I performed from the age of 12 and countless venues including church, musicals, endless Eastern Star functions (at the behest of my mother and/or Barb), many dinner parties at the country club, weddings, funerals, bar rooms, and concerts. If there was a piano or organ, I played it! I was the Director of Music and Organist at Central United Methodist Church for 18 years, a position that I truly cherished and loved for 16 1/2 years. Julie Carmean and I had a great time and a great ministry and innovative thinking. Due to the changes in leadership, the last year and a half was pure hell, hence my retirement. I was involved with Cappelli's Country Gardens from the beginning of the company. What a fantastic experience to grow and nurture not only flowers, but a successful local business. I was so proud to have been a part of this great success. Since my retirement this was one part of my life I truly missed. I loved interior and exterior design and always tried to have my homes well decorated and landscaped. And yes, I realized for a very long time that I really owned enough crystal and china! Christmas decorating was always a favorite thing to do, although 17 trees might have been a bit much. As you know I had an affinity for jewelry-I enjoy decorating myself as well! For several years, I pursued the art of oil painting under the tutelage of Floyd Hook. I was quite proud of some of these creative expressions of art. A number of them have adorned and the walls of my Florida residence. I also was a pretty good carpenter. How I loved my projects and was happiest when I was involved in one. There was not much that I could not build, wire or plumb. I loved the smell of freshly cut lumber. Often times the trunk of the Cadillac looked like a truck-you never know when you might need a circular saw or a drill! My two favorite things to do were cooking and entertaining. The countless dinner parties, usually lasting several hours, the annual opening of the holidays party, the patio parties, the famous Wizard of Oz party (150 people at that one), and all the parties "just because". I so enjoyed all the prep, the cooking, and sharing and creating great memories with my friends. I always greeted everyone with my perpetual cocktail in one hand and a cigarette in the other-everyone needs a trademark! What a marvelous life. I was lucky. In the midst of my busy life, I was blessed to have Dearl, my partner for 21 years. His love and support of me was unfathomable. Unfortunately, his health declined and I became his caregiver for 4 years of his difficult battle with cancer. I have missed him. (Continued)