Robert Lee Wright

Robert Lee Wright, son of the late Alexander and Sadie Wilkes was born June 29, 1927 in Chester, South Carolina. "Rob" (as he was affectionately known) was the eldest of four brothers and one sister. God in his divine wisdom, sent an angel of mercy to call "Rob" to eternal rest, after a lengthy illness. Rob received his education from the public schools in Baltimore, MD., after his parents moved here in 1931. Rob's first sweetheart was Bernice Jackson and out of this union, one child, Roberta was born. Rob entered the United States Army in 1951 and he had a distinguished military record as he faithfully served his country in Germany and other foreign countries. When Rob was discharged from the U.S. Army in 1953 he was hired almost immediately by the Department of the Army at Aberdeen Proving Ground. As a civilian member of Technical Services Transportation Division, Rob drove a tractor Trailer. He was later promoted to Supervisor of Maintenance. While working at Aberdeen Proving Grounds, Rob met and later married Frances Clarkson, who worked at the Army/Airforce Exchange. Rob continued working at Aberdeen Proving Grounds until his retirement on December 31, 1982. Frances, who was a long time member of Eastern United Methodist Church brought Rob to her church and he became a member. Rob was a tireless worker at EUMC in several ministries: Ushers, Chairman of the Soup Kitchen, Trustee, handyman until his health interfered with his attendance. Some days Rob and Willie Friday would start working at 7:00 A.M. and finish at 8:00 P.M. His wife Frances would have to threaten him to get him to come home. Rob later worked as a greeter at the Timonium Sam's Club, where he was celebrated as employee of the month. He worked at Sam's until his poor health restricted his hours. He was well thought of by coworkers and customers. Rob's favorite pastime was shooting pool. He was a "poolshark" and he had trophies to prove it. Even as recent as two years ago he was observed beating much younger guys at 8 ball and he was 87. Rob's trademark was his toothpick. He was rarely seen without a toothpick. Rob was well liked and he had many close friends including Etta Owings and her siblings: Bo Wright and Pop Wright, Goddaughter Barbara McMillian and Lacy Brock (Barbara). Other close friends at his church include Elijah Sessions, Al Davis and Joyce Dean. The late Mildred Payne (sister-in-law) was also one of Rob's dearest friends. Two of Rob's best friends while working at Sam's Club was Wanda Holmes and Susan Roscoe. Rob was preceded in death by his loving wife Frances Clarkson and three brothers; Ralph, Charles and Tony Wright. He leaves to cherish his memory: his daughter, Roberta and his son-in-law, Ronald R. Crockett, Sr.; sister, Ethel Mae Neal; sister-in-law, Judia Wright; nephew, Rock Wright (two sons); three grandchilden, Michelle Rodgers, Futina Dixon (Kent), and Kisha Jones; six great-grandchildren, three great-great-granchildren; his beloved Frances's nieces and nephews; and a host of family, church family and friends.

Tributes

Robert Lee Wright

June 29, 1927 - April 23, 2017