Clifford Walter Wright

Clifford Walter Wright, born on June 19, 1939, in Tyler, Texas, peacefully passed away on September 16, 2024 in his home in Winona, Texas. He leaves behind a legacy of warmth and laughter to all who knew him.

Clifford, known as "Kingpin" on the road, dedicated his life to truck driving, retiring from Southland. He reveled in the joy of cooking, with BBQ cookouts being his specialty. An engaging storyteller, he never failed to brighten the room with his contagious smile. Clifford's love for people extended beyond his circle, always willing to lend an ear or a hand.

A true craftsman, Clifford loved building smokers and ran three popular BBQ stands over the years. His passion for great meals and genuine connections made him a beloved figure in both his professional and personal life.

He is survived by his loving wife, Doris Wright; children, Cheryl Vickery and husband Terry of Whitehouse, Texas, Latricia Cowart of Lake Fork, Texas, Randal Wright of Palestine, Texas, Jeff Wright and wife Dena of Mineola, Texas, Deborah Farr and husband Troy of Longview, Texas, Tamatha Sinclair and husband Paul of Quitman, Texas, and Sabrina McAllister of Tyler, Texas; 17 grandchildren; 26 great-grandchildren; 1 great great-grandchild; 2 sisters and 2 brothers. His departure leaves a void in the hearts of many, but his spirit will live on in the fond memories shared by those who knew him.

Clifford is preceded in death by his parents, Fred and Ethyl Wright; 3 sisters and 3 brothers.

A visitation will take place on Thursday, September 19th from 5 to 7 in the evening at Croley Funeral Home in Gladewater, Texas. Graveside services to celebrate Clifford's life will be on Friday, September 20th at 10 in the morning at the Starrville Cemetery in Starrville, Texas. In these moments of grief, let us remember Clifford as the vibrant soul he was, eternally driving forward with a smile on his face and a kind word for all. May his legacy be an enduring beacon of light for those who knew him.