Leo Wright, Sr.
Leo Wright, Sr., a beloved resident of Bronson, passed away peacefully at his home on June 18, 2025. Born on June 9, 1936 in Bronson to William Cullen 'Cull' Wright and Margaret Ziegler Wright, Leo was a lifelong resident of Sabine County. He graduated from Bronson High School and went on to serve his country with distinction in the United States Navy from 1955 to 1959, working as an electrician on the USS Hancock and the USS Oriskany aircraft carriers. He continued his service in the Navy Reserves until 1961. On August 23, 1956, Leo married the love of his life, Barbara Sue Byley Wright, and together they shared nearly 69 wonderful years. After his military service, Leo worked as an electrician at Temple-Inland in both Pineland and Diboll, where he dedicated many years before retiring. In addition to his work, he was a chicken farmer for many years.
In 1972, he answered a higher calling and became a preacher, serving at several churches including Magnolia Springs Baptist Church, Harmony Missionary Baptist Church, Rosevine Missionary Baptist Church, and Harvey Creek Missionary Baptist Church until his retirement.
Leo was a man of many talents and passions. He enjoyed growing vegetables in his garden, working with his tractor, and was a skilled carpenter, crafting beautiful items for his family. His love for animals was evident, as he even trained a squirrel to eat from his hand.
He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara, of Bronson; his daughter, Gail Hanson and her husband, Ron, of Bronson; his twin brother, Theo Wright, also of Bronson: his sister, Sherry Mitchell of Warren, and his sister-in-law, Althea Wright of Lufkin. He also leaves behind a legacy through his grandchildren Britni and Clay Van Eman, Katey and Chris Dotson, Cullen Wright, and Clayton and Megan Wright, as well as his great-grandchildren Madi, Ty, Ceygan, Klayre, Layne, Remington, Cohen, Ryder, Morgan, and Avery.
Leo was preceded in death by his parents; his son, Leo Wright, Jr.; his brothers, Robert, Kenneth, William Arthur, and Jim, and his sister, Charlene Hermon.
Funeral services were held Saturday, June 21, 2025, at Starr Funeral Home Chapel in Hemphill, Texas, with Judge Jeff Boyd and Bro. Robert Byley, Jr. officiating.
Leo will be laid to rest in Little Flock Cemetery, with Bradley Byley, David Wright, Ben Byley, Chip Wright, Robert 'Puddin'' Wright and Larry Wright serving as pallbearers. Honorary pallbearers are Harold Byley, Gary Byley and Benny Byley, Jr.
In lieu of flowers, it is the family's request that donations instead be made to Little Flock Cemetery.
Memories and condolences can be shared at starrfuneralhome.