A funeral service celebrating the life of SSG Richard D. Wright, Ret., Tennessee Army National Guard, age 77, of Fayetteville, TN, will be held at 2 PM on Saturday, November 8, 2025, at Higgins Funeral Home, with Bro. Gary Wright, Bro. Eddie Graves, and Jack Raby officiating. Burial will follow in Higgins Cedar Hills Memorial Gardens, Garden of Honor. Visitation with the family will be from 12 PM until 2 PM on Saturday at Higgins Funeral Home.
Richard was born on September 1, 1948, in Fayetteville, Tennessee, to the late Frank Bruce Wright and Ruthie Tripp Wright. A lifetime resident of the community, he graduated from Central High School in 1966 and was a member of the Camargo Church of Christ. Richard was the owner and operator of Wright’s Garage. His passion extended beyond his business, as he was an avid builder and tinkerer with old cars, finding immense satisfaction in bringing them back to life. This mechanical skill and love for speed led him to the drag race track, where he happily enjoyed his racing time.
His commitment to service was further evident in his distinguished military career, which included a tour in the U.S. Army in Vietnam and a subsequent 22 years of service with the Tennessee Army National Guard.
Richard was a very social person who loved life, always quick to offer high praises for his family and friends, taking great pride in their individual successes. He treasured his time with friends at the “table of knowledge group” at the Park City Café. Richard passed away at his residence on November 3, 2025, surrounded by his devoted and loving family.
Survivors include his children, Jason (Tammy) Wright; Becky (Steve) White, Lance (Tracey) Wright, and Daniel Wright; grandchildren, Shelby Mastin, Jacob White, Julia White, Alissa White, Lindsey (Hunter) Adams, Hannah (Luke) King, Sarah Wright, Calla Campbell, Quinn Campbell, Robert Campbell, and Ian Campbell; great-grandchildren, Savannah Mastin, and Ruby Adams; siblings, Gary (Sue) Wright, C.R. (Sherryl) Wright, Bonita (Blake) Crabtree, and Sammy (Christy) Wright; and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Richard was preceded in death by his wife, Kaye Lovell Wright.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Fayetteville-Lincoln Co. Warrior Exhibit, 113 Main Ave, North, Fayetteville, TN 37334.
Higgins Funeral Home is honored to be serving the family of SSG Richard D. Wright, Ret., Tennessee Army National Guard.
I’m so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing. He was a dear friend of my husband, 1st Sargeant Randy Bradford, he and Richard served together in the guard for several years. He had called to check on me just recently! Many nights I could hear Randy in on the phone I’m our bedroom laughing like a kid. I’d inquire as to whom he was speaking to, and he would laugh, saying Richard. He considered Richard a brother. Prayers for his family during this trying time.
Mr Wright you have won the race.grab that checkered flag and burn some tires on those gplden streets.I will miss his sweet smile. He made me laugh and was such a kind and social person. He was the kind of person that you couldnt help but love. It was my pleasure to be his Hospice nurse. I will always think of him when I make a carrot cake. I am sorry Mr Wright that I didnt get your German Chocolate cake made. He gave me such a laugh after I made him the carrott cake for his borthday and he put his request in for a.German Chocolate cake. He said he was going to eat half of it himself. Becky, you and all the family are in my thoughts and prayers. Tears are flowing as I type this because I am going to miss him. Thank you for allowing me to be his nurse.
When they put Rex to rest I drove his old gasser I will never forget that big smile on him when we left the cemetery I stood on shifting gears he liked that rest in peace Mr Richard
We will miss Richard lots of memories from the Guard we were proud to know him
Family, Miki and l send our prayers and hugs to you all. What a Life Well Lived! Service to our country, Service to our community, Service to the Racing World. Rest in Peace Cuz.Sorry we will not be at service as Miki’s brother’s service is the same day.
Trumpet fades but bugles blowing Richard Wright R.I.P. my friend Slow hand salute!
Mr. Richard was such a sweet hearted man. I kept his words and was totally devoted to his children and his late wife. I laughed so many times with him listened to all of his war history and truly enjoyed my time with him!
Blake and Bonita With my sincere condolences to the family
Marcella scott
I find it heartbreaking to learn about Richard’s passing. I pray for peace and comfort for his beautiful family. Rest in peace where there is no more pain nor sorrow.
Richard, you will be missed. Thanks for what you taught me when serving in the Guard together. May God give peace and comfort to your family.
We are so sorry to hear of Richard’s passing.Such a sweet man and heck of a mechanic. Our hearts go out to each and every family member and friends
He will be greatly missed by us all.Heaven has gained another Angel and he is with Kay.
Prayers for Richard’s family. We always enjoyed talking with Richard, a very nice, kind gentleman.
Sorry to learn of Richard’s passing.
Richard, you were a dear friend…I will miss knowing you’re in this world. I thank you for your service to our country, your friendship, and your kindness. Godspeed, my friend…