James Edward Wright

James Edward Wright, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, employer, and friend, was born January 15, 1948, in Burnsville, MS, to Thelma Lee Roberts Wright and Thomas Edward Wright. Surrounded by loved ones, he passed away peacefully on January 30, 2025, in Oxford, Mississippi, at the age of 77. We rejoice in knowing that he was welcomed into the arms of Jesus, hearing the words, “Well done, good and faithful servant."

Determination best describes James. After graduating high school in Iuka, he attended Northeast Community College, often hitchhiking in order to further his education. A dedicated servant to both his country and community, James spent his early years in the Air Force before devoting his life to the retail grocery industry.

At the young age of thirteen, James began working at Liberty Grocery under the guidance of Herman Gann, who became his mentor and instilled in him a lifelong passion for the grocery business. This passion became his career, and alongside his business partner Charles Carson, James owned and operated Piggly Wiggly stores in Corinth, MS, Florence, AL, and Bruce, MS, for many years. His hard work, dedication, and commitment to serving his community built a lasting legacy that will be fondly remembered.

He served his country for eight years as a United States Air Force Staff Sergeant, where he also proudly represented the Air Force on the golf team. James received the Air Force Commendation Medal for distinguishing himself by outstanding achievement as a Bomb Navigation Systems Technician. His exceptional technical knowledge, initiative, and managerial ability were instrumental in successfully accomplishing the Wing' s mission in Southeast Asia.

His life journey took a beautiful turn when he met the love of his life, Rebecca (Becky) Crabb Pratt. The two were married on January 22, 1994, and together, they blended two families to build a strong and loving partnership that lasted over three decades. Their bond was a testament to friendship and devotion, leaving lasting memories for all who knew them. He was a devoted provider who always placed his family’s needs above all else, filling their lives with joy and support. His greatest pleasure in life was doing for others.

His passions were many. He enjoyed deer hunting and squirrel hunting not just to hunt but to be in God’s creation, to see nature, and to be amazed by God’s handiwork. He had a passion for knives and guns, with a deep appreciation for the craftsmanship and attention to detail. He was an avid and serious golfer. He loved sharing this passion with his sons. James was an adrenaline junkie. From skydiving (40 jumps) to fast cars, he lived life to the fullest. He enjoyed playing chess and had recently taken great pleasure in passing that love along to his grandchildren. As an avid supporter of Ole Miss Baseball, James found great happiness cheering for his team alongside Becky or one of the grandchildren. He enjoyed gardening and working in the yard, taking great pride in raising his own vegetables. He and Becky enjoyed traveling and were fortunate to see the world together. He loved spending time with his family, especially watching and listening to all the grandkids having fun together. Above all, he treasured the moments spent with loved ones, creating memories that will be held dear forever.

He was a dedicated member of the Bruce Rotary Club for thirty years, serving as club president from 1998 to 1999. James received the Four Avenues of Service Award for Individual Rotarians and was honored as a Paul Harris Fellow. He truly believed in and lived the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self. One Profits Most Who Serves Best,” spearheading and overseeing the Rotary Food Box Program for 25 years, which exemplifies a deep and enduring dedication to community service. Through this program, local Rotarians saw our community needs firsthand as they delivered more than just nourishment to the underserved of our community. In addition to Rotary, James was a 30-year member of the Bruce Chamber of Commerce, where he served on the Board of Directors for many years, served as President, and was the recipient of the Community Impact Award. James was a committed member of Bruce United Methodist Church, where he served as Chairman of Budget and Finance. His commitment to this position was evident when he held two budget meetings in the hospital before he passed.

He leaves behind his wife Becky; son Michael Wright (Pam) of Columbus, MS; daughter Melissa Wright Logan (Brad) of Bruce, MS; son Benjamin Pratt (Savannah) of Bruce, MS; and daughter Bethany Flint (Jon) of Daleville, MS; grandchildren Emma Katherine Pratt of Bruce, MS; Evelyn Leigh Logan of Bruce, MS; Anna Bethany Pratt of Bruce, MS; Jasper Reed Flint of Daleville, MS; Samuel Jennings Logan of Bruce, MS; Noah Timothy Pratt of Bruce, MS; and Charlotte Marie Flint of Daleville; MS; brother Tommy Wright (Sheila) of Iuka, MS; sister Judy Sherrill, of Iuka, MS; Sylvia York, family friend, Bruce, MS; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, and extended family.

James was preceded in death by his mother Thelma Lee Wright; his father Thomas Edward Wright; his sister Susan Sartain; and his stepmother Lillie Mae Wright.

The family will receive friends on Monday, February 3, 2025, from 10:00 AM until 12:00 PM at Bruce United Methodist Church. The service honoring James’ life will take place at noon at the church with Brother Lannis May, Pastor Lynn Mote, and Dr. Daniel Hathorne officiating.

Following the service, James will be laid to rest in Burnsville Cemetery in Burnsville, Mississippi with Bro. Brad Corban officiating at the graveside service. Charles Carson, Val Cuthbert, Dr. Jon Flint, Scott O’Brian, Ricky Odom, Andy Reid, Tony Tillman, and David Williams will serve as pallbearers. The Rotary Club of Bruce will serve as honorary pallbearers.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the Bruce Rotary Club Christmas Basket Fund, P.O. Box 52, Bruce, MS. 38915 or Bruce United Methodist Church, P.O. Box 429, Bruce, MS. 38915.

Parker Memorial Funeral Home is honored to serve the Wright family during this time.