Honoring the life and death of Ronald Edward Wright, a devoted family man and entrepreneur.
Highlights
- Ronald Edward Wright built a successful career as a businessman, owning barber shops and rental properties while contributing to his community.
- He had a deep love for golf, fishing, and antiques, sharing these passions with his wife, Gail, and creating lasting family traditions.
- Wright was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather whose faith remained central to his life, leaving behind a strong and loving family.
Ronald Edward Wright, a respected businessman and beloved family man from Madison Heights, carved a remarkable path through life with his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to the community.
His journey began on June 16, 1938, in Botetourt County, Virginia, where the foundations of his future success were laid.
During his youth, Wright’s family relocated to the Lynchburg area, where his natural talents flourished at Brookville High School.
His athletic prowess made him a standout figure as he led the school’s football team as a quarterback while also excelling in basketball and baseball. These early experiences shaped his competitive spirit and determination.
Wright’s commitment to service led him to join the United States Air Force, where he served honorably in Germany.
Upon returning home, he embarked on his entrepreneurial journey by establishing several barber shops.
His most notable venture, the Boonsboro Barber Shop at Boonsboro Shopping Center, became a community cornerstone where he served countless customers over decades.
His business acumen extended beyond barbering as he developed Wright Properties, acquiring and managing rental apartments and homes.
Together with his wife, Gail, Wright discovered a passion for antiques.
Their shared interest evolved from managing space in The Peddler Antique store to opening Mountain Meadow Antiques in Forest.
He took great pride in meticulously refinishing furniture pieces that Gail selected for their store, demonstrating his attention to detail and craftsmanship.
Wright pursued his recreational passions with the same dedication he showed in business.
As a long-time member of London Downs, he spent countless hours on the golf course and even shared a memorable day with his golfing idol, Arnold Palmer.
His love for fishing took him across regional waters and as far as Alaska, where he successfully caught salmon.
Family vacations held special significance for Wright. Beginning in 1977, he established a tradition of taking his family to Hilton Head Island, South Carolina.
These treasured moments were spent enjoying beach activities, cycling on trails, and exploring the island’s golf courses.
Ronald Edward Wright’s Passing Marks the End of a Life Well-Lived and Well-Loved
Ronald Edward Wright passed away on February 16, 2025, at the age of 86.
His departure came exactly three years after losing his beloved wife, Gail, with whom he shared 60 years of marriage.
As a devoted member of Thomas Road Baptist Church, his faith remained central to his life until the end.
Wright leaves behind a loving family, including his children: Randy Wright, Michelle Wright (Tony) of Pittsburgh, PA, David Wright (Haley) of Lynchburg, and Derek Wright (Roxane) of Pittsburgh, PA.
His legacy continues through his grandchildren Zachary, Allison, Megan, Jordan, and Jackson.
He joins his wife Gail Wright, parents Leslie and Jeannette Patterson Wright, and brother, Danny, in eternal rest.
The community will gather to celebrate Wright’s life and faith on Tuesday, February 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Whitten Monelison Chapel.
Pastor Matt Willmington will officiate the service, after which the family will welcome friends from 6:30 PM to 8:00 PM.
His journey from a small-town athlete to a successful businessman and family patriarch is an inspiration to all who knew him.
His memory lives on through the lives he touched and the legacy he built in Madison Heights and beyond.
Additional Information
- When he wasn’t working, he spent his time either golfing or fishing.
