Butch's obituary
Gary Evan Wright was born to the late Walter Wright Sr. and Eula (Davis) Wright on November 16, 1953 in Orange, NJ. He was the middle son of their six children.
Gary was educated through the Orange School District. As a young boy growing up in the projects on Gray Street, Gary spent most of his time with his childhood best friend Horace Wiggins. Gary had a strong competitive spirit, honed through his love for baseball and basketball during his youth. His athleticism was a defining trait, and it extended beyond sports—he was also a fierce protector of his sisters, nieces, and cousins, always looking out for them with unwavering loyalty. His combination of physical skill and deep sense of responsibility made him someone who could always be counted on, whether on the field or in life.
Gary served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War from 1972-1974 before receiving an honorable discharge. After his military service, he worked for the city of Orange in the Public Works Department, where he enjoyed his job and took great pride in serving his community.
In 2003, Gary began working at the Veteran’s Hospital in Lyons, where he later concluded his career. He found fulfillment in his work and took immense satisfaction in his role as the supervisor of the Housekeeping Department.
Gary was a dedicated and loving father, always putting his children’s needs first and ensuring they had everything they could possibly want or need. His pride in them was evident in his every action. He also cherished the time spent with his grandchildren, and striving to always make them feel special. Gary's commitment to his family and his generosity left a lasting impact on those lucky enough to know him.
Gary was called home to be with the Lord on February 19, 2025. He is predeceased by his parents Walter Sr. and Eula Wright; his oldest sister Joanne Everett (Jack); his brother, Ross Wright (Patricia); and his two sons, Gary Mayfield (Slink) and Ahmad Crudup.
Gary leaves to cherish his memories: his son Shareef Mayfield; his daughters Lateasha Jones and Sabrina Jenkins; brother Walter Wright, Jr.; Sisters Jacqueline Wright and Jamie Wright-Robinson (Alphonso); His grandchildren Gianni Simms, Nafeese Simms, Taijana Simms, Aamir Simms, Sanaa Edge, Sharyi Mayfield, Ge’Amani Mayfield, Samir Mayfield, Mi’Gee Mayfield, Shareef Polhill, Ace Jones, Ahmya Crudup and Ge’Ava Mayfield; great-grandchildren Giselle Forbes, Jakhari Simms and Kordae Holland. His beloved nieces and nephews Tina, Cortez, Schermelle, Nikki, Aamira, Kevin (Samone), Ross, Jaylen, Robert, Honesty, Cherrod (Jillian), Shamil, Nakiya, and Jasmine, who cherished their special bond with him. And a host of aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.