Eugene L. Wright

Eugene L. Wright, 76, of Youngstown, passed away on March 12, 2026, at the Hospice of the Valley – Hospice House.

Born on September 18, 1949, in Youngstown, Ohio, Gene was the son of Robert and Mary (Straus) Wright. A graduate of Woodrow Wilson High School, Class of 1969, he worked for many years in housekeeping at South Side Hospital. On October 26, 1974, he married the love of his life, Valerie Probert. Together they shared 51 years of marriage, creating a life centered on family and the simple pleasures they cherished.

Gene found great joy in fishing at Hamilton, Pine, Evans, and especially Pymatuning Lakes, where the family gathered for many memorable vacations. He also enjoyed visiting the flea market, where he would spend hours socializing with friends. Above all, he treasured his time with family and took deep pride in his role as “Grandpa.”

He is survived by his wife, Valerie Wright, of Youngstown; sons David (Mitch Deffenbaugh) Wright and Matthew (Natalie) Wright; mother Mary Wright of Boardman; grandson Kameron Wright; sister Cynthia (Louis) Grieco of Boardman; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins. He was preceded in death by his father, Robert Wright; brothers Charles, Richard, David, and Robert Wright; and sisters Darlene Wright, Evelyn Ploughman, and Betty Jane Fuller.