James “Jim” Charles Wright, lovingly known to many as “Poppy,” passed away peacefully on May 25, 2026, at the age of 83, surrounded by the love of his family. Jim was born on January 28, 1943, in Berryville, Arkansas, to Rex and Gladys Wright. He spent his childhood in Berryville and Harrison before eventually making Springfield, Missouri, his home. Throughout hisContinue Reading
Jim was born on January 28, 1943, in Berryville, Arkansas, to Rex and Gladys Wright. He spent his childhood in Berryville and Harrison before eventually making Springfield, Missouri, his home. Throughout his life, he was known for his strong work ethic, unwavering faith, gentle spirit, and deep love for his family.
A proud patriot, Jim honorably served his country in the United States Army and was stationed in Germany during the Vietnam War. Following his military service, he worked diligently in a variety of occupations, including building large production equipment for MD Pneumatics. He later moved to Sleeper, Missouri, where he worked in a furniture store and served as pastor of an Assemblies of God church, faithfully sharing God’s Word and ministering to those around him.
After returning to Springfield, Jim began driving a school bus route, a job that would unexpectedly lead him to the love of his life. One of the children who rode his bus was Susette Hogan, who was convinced Jim would be a perfect match for her mother, Rose Ann. She brought Jim a photograph of her mother, and Jim sent one of himself in return. Before long, the two met for coffee, and what began as a simple introduction quickly grew into a beautiful love story.
Jim and Rose Ann were married on October 12, 1984, in an intimate ceremony held in a small section of Drury Chapel. Together they shared 41 wonderful years of love, faith, friendship, and devotion.
Music was one of the great joys of their life together. RoseAnn played the piano, Jim played the guitar, and together they filled their home with songs of faith and worship. They treasured life’s simple pleasures—sitting at the front of their home watching hummingbirds and a beloved pair of cardinals, riding horses together, spending time at the shooting range, and enjoying quiet evenings watching westerns. Jim was a cowboy at heart, and his love for horses, the outdoors, and the western way of life remained with him throughout his years.
Above all else, Jim loved the Lord. His Bible was never far from reach, and he spent countless hours reading Scripture, sharing God’s truth, and encouraging others in their faith. He lived what he believed, leading by example through kindness, humility, service, and steadfast devotion to God.
Jim was preceded in death by his parents, Rex and Gladys Wright; his daughter, Carmelle Cherie Hogan; his siblings, Dorothy Crawford, Jane Rost, and Larry Wright; and his nephew, Dean Rost.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Rose Ann Wright; his son, Daniel Wright and wife CeCe; his daughters, Susette Hogan, Christina Wilson and husband Jackie, and bonus daughter Kelly Jackson; his brother, Floyd Wright; his niece, LeAnn Crawford; his grandchildren, Jasmyne Santisteven, McKayla Wright, Corbyn Wright, and Kasyn Wright, Brett Van Hogan, Ciera Rose Ince, Maria Cherie Ince, Malyshia Beth Hogan, Abrionna Nicole Hogan, Joshua Wayne Wilson, Jacob Nathanael Wilson, and bonus grandchildren Taylor Harrington, Novica Jackson, and Kimora Jackson; his great-grandchildren, Echo Wright, Mekhi De’Angelo Triplett, Mila Rose Triplett, Keyonna Patterson, Kyron Patterson, Kaysean Patterson, Kaylene Patterson, Ledan Fewell, Taylor Ince; and many other cherished family members and dear friends.
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