Gurtis Pauline Wright, 92, passed away on Tuesday, September 15, 2026, at NMMC Nursing Home, Pontotoc, MS. She is survived by two sons, Rev. Charles Wright (Debbie), Rev. Gary Wright (Sandy), and her nine grandchildren, sixteen great-grandchildren, five great-great-grandchildren, and many nieces and nephews.
A beloved matriarch and a beacon of grace and kindness, Pauline was born on August 24, 1934, in Pontotoc County, Mississippi. Her life was a testament to devotion—devotion to her faith, her family, and her community.
Pauline grew up under the nurturing guidance of her parents, Rev. Leo and Curell Galloway, whose values and teachings she carried throughout her life. She found a lifelong partner in Sanford Wright, whom she married on December 25, 1948. At the time, Sanford was serving in the United States Air Force, and together they built a home filled with love and laughter, raising their four children: Brenda, Charles, Gary, and David.
She worked for a while as a seamstress in clothing factories. However, it was as a devoted housewife and mother that Pauline truly found her calling. Her home was a haven where family gathered, and she nurtured not only her children but also her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, who often enjoyed her culinary delights, each having a favorite dish prepared with love.
Pauline’s life was deeply rooted in her faith. A devout Christian, she faithfully attended Black Zion Pentecostal Church where her son, Rev. Charles Wright, served as pastor. Her gentle spirit and kindness left an indelible mark on all who knew her, embodying the teachings she cherished.
Though her later years were spent at NMMC Nursing Home in Pontotoc due to health challenges, her legacy continued to flourish through her surviving family. Her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren are a testament to her enduring influence and love.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Sanford; her parents Rev. Leo and Curell Galloway; her brother, Rev. Billy Galloway; her daughter, Brenda Owen; son-in-law, James Owen; her son, David Wright; and her grandson, Davy Wright.
Pauline’s life will be celebrated on Friday, September 18, 2026, at Tutor Memorial Funeral Home, where her spirit of warmth and love will be remembered by those who had the privilege of knowing her. Visitation will be from 11am to 1pm followed immediately by the service. Her service will be officiated by her grandson Rev. Matthew Cooper, her grandson-in-law Rev. Micah Carrier, and her nephew Rev. Murray Galloway. There will be no graveside service. Tutor Memorial Funeral Home in Pontotoc is handling the arrangements.
Serving as pallbearers will be Jason Wright, Joseph Wright, Jared Wright, Allen Owen, Joey Baird, and Greg Whitlow.
