James Diery Wright, Jr.

James D. Wright, 82, of Ruffin, NC, went to be with the Lord on July 17, 2025, at his home.

His greatest accomplishment was creating a Christian home with his wife of 60 years, Shirley Faye Parker Wright, for his children and grandchildren.

A native of Patrick County, VA, he was born on Pole Bridge Road and graduated from Hardin Reynolds Memorial High School in Critz, VA, where he played varsity basketball. He attended Ferrum College, High Point University, VCU, and RCC, where he received a degree in education.

He worked in textiles as a loom fixer with Fieldcrest, Dan River, and JP Stevens. He later worked at Walmart in Eden before officially retiring.

James was known as “Tomato Man” at Eden Flea Market and Piedmont Triad Farmers Market. For years, he would grow up to 2,600 plants from a small greenhouse behind his house. He thoroughly enjoyed helping and being around his daughter and son-in-law, Sherri and Josh, with their greenhouses. They cherished his advice, wisdom, and love.

“Papa Smurf” always supported his son, David—whether coaching Little League, bowling in the Father and Son league, or watching ball games.

James was a true DIY’er. Being the ultimate handyman, there wasn’t much he couldn’t fix or build around the house. He always enjoyed working on vehicles. He cherished being able to teach, help, and work with his grandchildren, Nicholas and Logan, on their car projects or anything that had a motor. They enjoyed many trips to the Outer Banks with their grandparents.

He was preceded in going home to the Lord by his parents, James “Diery” Wright Sr. and Alice Wright of Patrick Springs, VA, and his sister, Peggy Wright Stone of Wake Forest, NC.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Shirley Faye Parker Wright, of the home; son, David Wright of Ruffin, NC; daughter and son-in-law, Sherri Kirk and Josh Kirk of Reidsville, NC; grandsons, Joshua Logan Kirk and wife, Annslie, of Raleigh, NC, and Nicholas James Kirk of Reidsville, NC; sisters, Marie Lawrence of St. Simons Island, GA, and Virginia Arthur (David) of Kenbridge, VA; in addition to nieces and nephews.

The family would like to thank the wonderful staff at Annie Penn Hospital for the multiple years they treated James. Up to the end of his life, James was a witness for Jesus, his Lord.