D. Lee Wright

Donald Lee Wright, 55, of Ruffin, North Carolina, passed away unexpectedly on March 8th at his home.

Lee was born on July 28th, 1970, in Cookeville, Tennessee to Lyn Winebarger of Hickory, North Carolina and Don Wright of Ruffin. Naturally curious and a genius intellect, he was an extremely talented student, graduating from the North Carolina School of Science and Mathematics in 1988. He would go on to receive multiple degrees from Appalachian State University, Western Kentucky University, and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro, where he would ultimately earn a Master of Arts degree in Economics. He worked for several years as an instructor at Rockingham Community College.

Lee will be remembered for too many things to list in such a short space: as a devoted uncle, a naturally brilliant musician, a quick wit. His mastery of instruments was legendary. Guitar, mandolin, piano, Scottish bagpipes, pennywhistles, bass, drums, banjo, lap steel-- if it made a sound, Lee could play it - and play it well. His humor was often hilariously absurd and his laughter infectious. He liked baseball, cats, and spending time with family. He was particularly fond of Legos and had recently developed an interest in cooking.

Lee is survived by his parents, Lyn Soeder and Don Wright, stepmother Marilyn Wright, brothers Graeme, Charlie, and Andrew, and sisters Heather and Elise, all of whom miss him tremendously. We are very thankful for the outpouring of support we’ve received at this time.

A memorial service will be held at a later date. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance or National Alliance on Mental Illness.