Deacon James R. Wright

James Ravin Wright was born on July 28, 1952, in Galveston, Texas, to Mamie Woodard and Herman Wright Sr. He was lovingly raised by his stepfather, Robert Smith Sr. 

He was baptized at an early age at Bethlehem Christian Church in Cedar Lake, Texas. James believed in going to church and serving God. He was a God-fearing man who served as a deacon at Magnolia Bible Church under the leadership of the late Pastor Edmond Baker Sr. Later, he joined Greater Mount Zion Church in Brazoria, Texas, under the leadership of Pastor Roland Hendricks, where he faithfully served as a trustee, deacon, and greeter. 

Throughout his time at Greater Mount Zion, James contributed to many ministries, including Hearts of Wisdom, the Couples Ministry, Hospital and Home Visitation, Men’s Ministry, Transportation Ministry, Yard Ministry, Security Team, and Parking Team. He remained active in service until his health began to decline. 

James received his education in the Van Vleck public school system and graduated from O.H. Herman High School with the Class of 1970. He later pursued higher education at Southwestern Business University in Houston, Texas. 

James was a dependable and hardworking man who believed in doing things the right way. He has worked at Dow Freeport at Poly, B2900 as a contractor for 47 years. He started in 1976 as a contractor at Poly for several companies as a forklift operator and driver for the Dow transportation shuttle.  In 2000, he was contracted into the Freeport Terminal on 7/27/2000 and started his career with BTT, then XPO and later retired from STG in 2023. 

James enjoyed watching sports and spent many years playing softball in the community as a pitcher for the “Lakers.” He was also known for saltwater fishing, and his love of dominoes, famous for his friendly competitiveness and long string of trophies. 

James Wright was first married to Deborah Nelson Wright, and from that union, three children were born. He later married Louella Green Wright, and they were together for over 40 years. 

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mamie and Robert Smith, and Herman Wright Sr.; his brothers, Herman Wright Jr. and Floyd Rowe; and his sister, Ethel Harkless and his stepson Brian Tims. 

“He fought a good fight, he kept the faith, he finished the course.” 
 

James will be deeply missed and forever loved by many. 

He leaves to cherish his memory his children: Antoine Wright (Navasota), Levar Wright (Coretta, Lake Jackson), and Anita Wright Ross (Pearland). 
 

His siblings: Robert Smith Jr. (Cedar Lake), Barbara Smith (Houston), Woodard Smith (Melanie, Brazoria), Ira Smith (Arlene, Bay City), Marilyn Delahoussaye (Pearland), Faye Johnson (Garland), John Smith (Clarissa, Brazoria), Kelley Smith (Trina, Brazoria), and Gloria Tilson (Galveston). 

He is also survived by his stepchildren, Brad (Donna) Green and Ulanda Tims; twelve grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; and a host of extended family members and friends who will forever honor and remember his life. 

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