Shirley Wright Wagner

Shirley Wright Wagner, née Dripps, was born in Oregon on February 10, 1932. She passed away peacefully at home, resting in her favorite chair in the loving arms of family.
Shirley lived with an open heart, a generous spirit, and a deep love for family, friends, and community. She married Thomas Ronald Wright, with whom she raised their four children in Portland, Oregon: Thomas, David, Cynthia, and Richard. Though their marriage ended, they remained lifelong friends until Ron’s passing in 2010. She later married Master Sergeant Robert “Bob” Wagner, USAF (Ret.), whose love brought her great happiness until his passing in 1985.
A devoted mother, grandmother, sister, aunt, and friend, Shirley created a welcoming home filled with kindness, encouragement, and unconditional love. She was active in Rose City Park Presbyterian Church, where she became its first woman usher, first woman deacon, and first woman elder. She dedicated countless hours to her community, advocating for causes she believed in and serving in leadership roles with the Rose City Park Elementary and Madison High School PTAs.
Shirley found joy in gardening, especially tending her beloved roses, as well as golf, duplicate bridge, travel, beachcombing, and time spent with those she loved. Her warmth, optimism, and genuine interest in others left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.
In 1987, she moved to Prescott, Arizona, to be near her daughter, Cyndi Arbona, and grandchildren Freddie and Nichole. In 2000, she moved to Gilbert, Arizona, where she became an integral part of the daily lives of her grandchildren Jessica and Gabriel Wright. “Grammie” shared the same boundless love, encouragement, and devotion with all her grandchildren.
Throughout retirement, Shirley remained active and engaged, volunteering at the Gilbert Historical Museum and the Gilbert Senior Center, where she formed many cherished friendships. She was a lifelong member of the Elks, VFW, and American Legion in Portland, Prescott, and Gilbert.
Healthy and active for nearly all of her 94 years, Shirley approached life with gratitude, purpose, and enthusiasm.
She was preceded in death by her sons, Richard William Wright (1992) and Thomas Ronald Wright Jr. (2017).
Shirley is survived by her daughter, Cyndi Arbona; her son, David Wright, and daughter-in-law, Cynthia; her grandchildren Freddie (Maggie) Arbona, Nichole (Pedram) Parand, Jessica Wright, and Gabriel Wright; as well as great-grandchildren, many extended family members, and dear friends.
Shirley’s legacy lives on in her family, the communities she strengthened, and the countless lives she touched.