Senior Chief Petty Officer Jerry Lewis Wright, U.S. Navy, Ret

Senior Chief Petty Officer Jerry Lewis Wright, U.S. Navy, Ret, age 79, of Lumberton, MS passed away peacefully in the early hours of March 7 following a long battle with Parkinson’s disease. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, and a proud Vietnam veteran and Purple Heart recipient who served his country with courage and dedication as a U.S. Navy hospital corpsman.

Jerry was preceded in death by his parents, Jack Willard Wright and Aunetta Gilberta Wright Keniston (née Whited).

He is survived by his beloved wife, Karen Wright (née Boehning); his children, Kara Dawn Wall (Mark Wall), Jerry Wright Jr. (Kim Tucker), Temple Kassing (Ricky Kassing), Heidi Wright, Sharra Rea (Daniel Rea), and Deidre Ladner; his brothers, Jack Wright, James Wright, and Jesse Wright; as well as eighteen grandchildren and six great-grandchildren, all of whom he loved dearly.

In the 1960s Jerry was accepted into West Texas State University but soon received notice that he had been drafted into the military, then, received orders to Vietnam. Though he had hoped to continue his education, he answered the call and reported for duty. He joined the United States Navy and trained as a hospital corpsman, serving alongside United States Marines. His role required him to complete Marine training as well, making him one of the few who endured boot camp twice.

During the early years of the Vietnam War, Jerry served on the front lines as a hospital corpsman, providing medical care to wounded soldiers under extremely dangerous conditions. His courage and dedication to saving others left a lasting impression on those who served with him. During one engagement he was seriously wounded during a mortar attack and was awarded the Purple Heart for his service and sacrifice.

Jerry continued his career in the United States Navy for 27 years, retiring with the rank of Senior Chief Petty Officer. Though the experiences of war stayed with him throughout his life, he faced them with quiet strength and a solid faith in Jesus Christ, supported every step of the way by his devoted wife.

Above all else, Jerry was a family man. He raised five daughters and one son and cherished time spent with his family. He enjoyed family picnics and watching football. He was a strong swimmer, a skilled carpenter, an avid motorcyclist, and a competitive golfer. He was also actively engaged in his church, serving in the care ministry and as a Sunday School teacher. He was known for his tremendous sense of humor, and his stories and laughter will be remembered by his family for many years to come.

Jerry loved deeply and was deeply loved by his family, and he will be greatly missed. His courage, humor, and steadfast faith will continue to guide and inspire those who knew and loved him.

Visitation will be on Monday, March 16, 2026, from 12 - 1 pm at Cedar Lake Christian Assembly, 11555 Cedar Lake Road, Biloxi, MS 39532. The funeral service will be at 1 pm in the church. Interment will be in Biloxi National Cemetery.

The Riemann Family Funeral Home, Biloxi, is serving the family.

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