Jerome “Roni” Steven Wright Sr.,of Williamsburg, died Aug. 14, 2015, at Riverside Doctors’ Hospital.
He graduated from James Blair High School as a star athlete with pro basketball skills that were recognized by several college scouts. He achieved academically at The College of William & Mary, Hampton University and Norfolk State University. Roni played and coached basketball and his competitiveness led to many championships.
His assertiveness and competitiveness was also displayed in the workforce and it contributed toward him being a top salesman on many different occasions. If an item had a price tag on it, Roni could sell it. His last sales position led him to earn “famous” status, because customers could not get enough of his sales pitch and would travel from near and far just too hear him talk. He was an active member of Bethel Temple in Hampton until his health began to fail.
Roni was an intellectual God-fearing man who dedicated his focus to his family. Some of his most enjoyable times were hosting family gatherings with his wife Mary. Even though their home was not large, Roni would invite and pack the house out, ensuring everyone had room to fellowship.
He had a love for cars and would attend car shows near and far just to educate himself on the different type of cars. His cars were ALWAYS spotless regardless of the season. He believed in cleanliness and didn’t mind helping his wife with chores around the house. He did a superb job maintaining a perfectly groomed “golf course” yard. He was best known for his charismatic personality that made people want to be in his presence, because they knew they would have a guaranteed good laugh. His life will be celebrated with great memories in the years to come by family and friends.
Roni was preceded in death by his father, Henry Wright Sr.; sister, Francis Bostic; and daughter, Belinda Harris.
Roni leaves to cherish his memories his loving and devoted wife, Mary Wright; mother, Beatrice Wright; children, Jerome Wright Jr. (Lisette), Julius Holmes (Sherita), Jason Havens, Brandon Havens, Joy Havens, Ronnie Lewis, Cherrie Morris, Tanesha Strong, Amyiah Hillian and Shayla Hillian; 10 grandchildren; one great-grandchild; brothers, Henry Wright Jr. (Joyce) and Michael Wright (Wanda); sister, Vivian Wallace (Vasco); and a host of cousins, nieces, nephews, loving relatives and caring friends.
The family would like to extend a special thanks to Dr. John Miller, Dr. Flavia Kosco, nurse practitioner JoAnn Mello, the entire Riverside Oncology nursing staff and Mrs. Patricia Bonds.
Roni may be viewed from 5 to 7 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 19, 2015, at Whiting’s Funeral Home. A homegoing service will be held at noon Thursday, Aug. 20, 2015, at Mount Pleasant Baptist Church. Interment will follow at Cedar Grove Cemetery. Family and friends will assemble one hour prior to the service at 309 Queensbury Lane.
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.” 2 Timothy 4:7
Please leave online condolences for the family at Whiting’s Funeral Home.
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