WRIGHT: A life well-lived

In Paul Harvey’s words, “Here is the rest of the (WRIGHT) story.”

In the Oct. 15 edition of The Press, the story appeared on my donation to UGM for renovation of apartments for the Union Gospel Mission Center for Women and Children. The plaque I was holding tells the rest of the story … IN LOVING MEMORY OF TERRY WRIGHT.

We met and married late in life. In the brief eight and a half years we shared, I was blessed by Terry’s love for the Lord, his servant’s heart and the depth of his generosity. On the third anniversary of his death, I approached Linda Cook with what, I believe, would have been his choice. Since then I learned he began donating to UGM in 1993.

Terry was a pilot for Empire Airlines, then flew fixed-wing for MEDSTAR. He was a widower when we met. He and his first wife built their country bungalow as they could afford it. They bought a used 1994 Camry to celebrate their 25th anniversary. Weeks before he died, he announced sadly, “I won’t see my 1994 Camry turn 400,000 miles!” With the help of my son, it is now at 397,000!

What does giving look like? I learned from Terry it is possible by being grateful for the simple things and looking for ways to help and share with others. His legacy of love, laughter, kindness and loyalty will live on.

One of his favorite Scripture verses was, “This is the day the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” And now you know the rest of the story.

JULIE WRIGHT

Coeur d’Alene