Wayne Smith Wright, 79, of Wirt County, West Virginia, passed away on June 2, 2026, at WVU Medicine as a result of kidney failure caused by Agent Orange exposure.
Born on June 29, 1946, at his family home on Bear Run in Wirt County, Wayne was the son of the late Charles R. Wright and Beulah Morgan Wright. He was the last surviving member of his immediate family and was preceded in death by his sisters, Ruby Yax and Zoanna Dorsey, and his brothers, Lawrence, Clarence, Dwain Morgan, Robert, and Jackie Wright.
Wayne is survived by his devoted wife of nearly 60 years, Sandra Null Wright, whom he married on July 15, 1966; his beloved daughter, Virginia (Gini) Wright; and his cherished granddaughters, Victoria Lee Quick, Corissa Rayne Quick, and Mercedes Ashton Quick.
Wayne retired from Verizon after 37 years of dedicated service and continued his career as a contract engineer throughout West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, and Pennsylvania for an additional 15 years.
A proud veteran, Wayne served in the United States Army from 1965 to 1967. During his military service, he was stationed in Vietnam with the 4th Infantry Division at Pleiku in the Central Highlands, including service at Dragon Mountain, later known as Camp Enari.
Throughout his life, Wayne remained deeply committed to his community. He was a life member and past commander of the local Veterans of Foreign Wars, a past president of the Wirt County Development Authority, a member of the Lions Club, an alumnus of the West Virginia Chamber of Commerce Leadership Program, and a member of the National Rifle Association.
Wayne found great joy in fishing, hunting, and spending time with his family. He will be remembered for his dedication to his country, his community, his profession, and most importantly, the people he loved.
In accordance with his wishes, no services will be held.
Matheny Whited Funeral Home is honored to assist the Wright family with arrangements.
