Richard James Wright, 78, of Lawrence, Kansas, passed away at his home on September 6, 2026. He was born on October 13, 1947, in Osage City, Kansas, to Alfred Wright Sr. and Sylvia Jane Worley Wright. He was affectionately known as “Butch” to his family and friends. Richard married Sherryl on April 29, 1967, in Topeka, Kansas. Together, they built a life and family that included their two daughters, Teresa and Tammy.
Richard was a hardworking and dedicated man who spent much of his life building a career and serving the Lawrence community. From 1967 to 1982, he worked as the Automotive Manager for Montgomery Ward in Lawrence. He also earned his real estate license and worked for Mitchell Real Estate from 1980 to 1982. In 1982, Wright’s Wallcovering was established by Sherryl. Two months later, Richard began Richard Wright Realtors, beginning a long career in real estate and becoming a familiar and trusted name in the Lawrence community.
Richard’s greatest pride was his family. He is survived by Sherryl, his daughters, Teresa (Michael) of Lawrence, Kansas, and Tammy of Lawrence, Kansas; and his five grandchildren, Brandon, Jacob, Connor, Ragan, and Keegan. He is also survived by his sister, Nancy Overholt of Shawnee, Kansas; his brother, David (Connie) Wright of Osage City, Kansas; and several nieces and nephews; and his lifelong friend, Ray Davis.
Richard was preceded in death by his parents, Alfred Wright Sr. and Sylvia Worley Wright Coe; his sisters, Pat(Leroy), Wanda(Max), and Judy (Charlie); his brother, Alfred “Al” Wright Jr.(Arlene); and his brother-in-law, Floyd Overholt. He was also preceded in death by two nieces and four nephews.
Richard was a man of faith. In 1967, Richard accepted Christ as his Savior, and he kept the Salvation Prayer in his wallet from that day forward—a small but meaningful reminder of the faith that remained an important part of his life. Richard will be remembered by his family and friends as a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend. He was a lifelong KU Jayhawk basketball fan and could often be found with a cup of coffee in one hand and a smile on his face. Those who knew him will remember not only the life he built and the people he loved, but also the warmth, faith, and joy he brought to those around him. The memories he created throughout his 78 years will remain a cherished part of the lives of all who knew and loved him. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Saturday, October 3, 2026, from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the Lawrence Union Pacific Depot, 402 N. 2nd St., Lawrence, KS. Reverend Richie Thomas will be officiating. Refreshments will be served. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to help his daughter, Teresa Foster’s fight against cancer at https://ffnd.co/vZxNom.
