Jerry “Shag” Wright, 77, passed away peacefully Sunday, September 7, 2025, under the care of Hospice of South Georgia and his loving family. He was one day shy of his 78th birthday.
Born in Pierce County, he was a proud descendant of the Wright family who came to this area as part of the Gilmer Migration in the early 1900s. He made his home in Screven and Wayne County for most of his life, dedicating himself to his community and his country.
He honorably served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War as a front-line munitions’ carrier. He was one of only 37 out of 185 in his unit to return home in 1969, a testament to his courage and resilience. Following his service, he began a long career at Rayonier, from which he later retired.
A man deeply committed to public service, he served 10 years on the Screven City Council before being elected as the district two representative on the Wayne County Board of Commissioners, a position he held faithfully for 25 years. Known for his unmatched dedication and countless training hours, he was truly a man of the people, representing his community with pride and helping everyone he could whether they lived in his district or not.
He was known for his generosity and joy in bringing people together. Whether cooking Cadillac rice or Brunswick Stew for large crowds at community events or hosting gatherings at his beloved shop, he created countless memories for friends and family alike. In 2024, he developed his Soldiers Park on the family property in Screven to honor all branches of the military, a lasting tribute to his service and to all who served.
Survivors include his devoted wife of 57 years, Raquel Aspinwall Wright; their son, Jerry Chris Wright; his brothers, Arthur Wright and Hershal Wright; sisters, Donna and Alene in Osteen, Florida and a wide circle of friends and neighbors who cherished his friendship and service. He was preceded in death by his parents, Virginia and Huel Wright, brothers Larry, A. J., and Buddy, a sister Virginia Ann, and his fur baby, Sparky Wright.
Visitation will be from 9:30-11 a.m. Saturday, September 13, at Screven First Baptist Church.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 13, from the Screven First Baptist Church with Pastor Gerald Greenlee, the Rev. Vann Dempsey and David Simmons officiating.
Interment with military honors will follow in the Screven Cemetery.
Active pallbearers will be Larry McGough, Daniel Royal, John Royal, Jason Weaver, Derek Smith and Greg Tyre.
Honorary pallbearers will be Bob Smith, Danny Rogers, Johnny Ben Aspinwall, Herschell Hires, John Shaver, James “Boot” Thomas, Mike Deal, Mike Hargrove, Darrell Wasdin, Mike Roberts, Robert Odum, Paul Drawdy, Donna Stanfield, Emma Lou Thompson and Charlie and Janice Brown.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of South Georgia, 1625 Sunset Blvd, Jesup, GA 31545.
The family wishes to thank John and Janet Royal for the care and concern shown to Shag and the family throughout this time.
Sympathy may be expressed by signing online at www.hartfh.com.
Hart Funeral Home of Blackshear is in charge of arrangements.
