William Wright

Loving Husband, Devoted Father, and Loyal Friend

It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of William Albert Wright, Jr. (Bill), a beloved husband, father, and friend. He passed away peacefully at home on November 11th, 2023, surrounded by the love of his family.

Bill was born on March 18th, 1943 in Pocatello, Idaho to Lucile H. Wright and William Albert Wright, Sr. They moved to Lodi, California briefly and then to Fresno where he lived until he was married. He attended Bullard High School where he played first chair trumpet in the marching and studio bands. He was a member of the student council, the Hi-Y Club, and the Key Club.

He was well liked by all that knew him. Bill graduated from Bullard High in 1961 and went on to attend Fresno State & the University of California, Berkeley. He had enough credits to graduate, but changed his major and decided to become an entrepreneur and go into the pizza business.

Bill was a dedicated and loving husband to Joanne Wright (Jody) for 57 years. They were married on January 29, 1966 and were later sealed in the Oakland California Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on May 3,1975. Bill and Jody had a beautiful life together filled with love, laughter, and adventure.

Bill was also a devoted father to Cristen, Jana, Jeremy and Jennifer. He was always there for his children, supporting them in everything they did. Bill was a loving and caring parent who will be deeply missed.

A Life Well-Lived

 Bill was a kind and compassionate person who always put others first and was willing to lend a helping hand to whomever was in need. He truly had a heart of gold.

Bill was a talented entrepreneur, snow and water skier, craftsman, photographer, chef, and tennis player. Bill enjoyed driving his Porsche convertible and riding his Honda Shadow motorcycle. He loved and appreciated the beauty of nature. He loved spending time at Yosemite and was proud he made it to the top of Half Dome more than once.

Bill loved to talk and share his stories, ideas, opinions & wisdom with anyone willing to listen. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints where he served in many positions, including bishop. Bill also served two missions for the Church.

He recently said, "If I came away from this life with only three things, it would be worth it; My wife, my family, and the Gospel." He loved spending time with family and friends and will be remembered by all who knew him for his infectious smile and sense of humor.

Bill is survived by his loving wife, Jody; his children, Cristen (Mark), Jana (Damien), Jeremy (Bethia) and Jennifer (Bret); and his grandchildren, Ashley, McKenzie (Jake), Conner, Hannah, William, Lucy, Clara, Griffin, Olivia, Everett, Ellie, Theo and Cordelia.

Bill was predeceased by his parents, William A. Wright, Sr. and Lucile H. Wright, and his sister Barbara Hayward.

Celebration of Life

A memorial service will be held on December 1st, 2023, at 11:00am at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints located at 12352 S. Bigbend Vista Dr., Herriman, Utah.

There will be an Open House later that afternoon at 2:30pm to 5:30pm at the Midas Creek Clubhouse, 5486 Ore Cart Way, Herriman, Utah, 84096.

Bill will be deeply missed by all who knew him.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the University of Utah's Advanced Heart Failure Association.