Harvey Burl Wright, 92, of Huntsville, Alabama, passed away on Sunday, October 11, 2026, at Huntsville Hospital.
Harvey was born on August 31, 1934, in Lawrence County, Illinois, the son of Sherman Addison Wright and Marie L. (Spillman) Wright. His family roots in southeastern Illinois reached back several generations, and Harvey took great interest in preserving and sharing that history. He was the grandson of Orville Wright and the great-grandson of Harvey James Wright, who, according to family history, served as a drummer boy during the Civil War under Ulysses S. Grant and later became a farmer, country doctor, grist mill owner and operator, preacher, and explorer of the American West.
Harvey often reflected with fondness on the story of his own beginning. He was born at the home of his grandfather and great-grandfather near Chauncey and Northport, just north of Bridgeport, Illinois. At the time, his father was a 21-year-old tenant farmer living across the Embarras River. Family stories from Harvey’s earliest days, including the memorable journey home across the river by wagon with his parents, mules, and a stubborn red cow, became part of the rich family history he preserved and shared.
Harvey valued education and pursued advanced study in electrical engineering. He earned a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of Illinois in 1968. His academic achievement reflected his intelligence, determination, and lifelong interest in engineering and technology.
In 1978, Harvey and his wife Marilyn moved to Huntsville, Alabama, where he continued his career in electrical engineering. He retired from The Boeing Company in 2000. One of his greatest professional accomplishments was the work he contributed to the International Space Station, a project that reflected his technical expertise, dedication, and commitment to advancing space exploration.
Harvey married Marilyn Ann Sterchi, and they shared many years together until her passing on March 23, 2018.
Harvey was a devoted husband, father, uncle, and friend.
Those who knew Harvey will remember him for always using his engineering mind to create and refine.
Harvey is survived by his daughter, Vicki Ann Wright of Aurora, Colorado; his niece, Cindy (Tom) Zerkle of Olney, Illinois; and other family members and friends who will cherish his memory.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Sherman and Marie Wright, and his beloved wife, Marilyn Ann Wright.
A visitation will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. on Friday, October 16, 2026, at Laughlin Service Funeral Home in Huntsville, AL.
A funeral service for Harvey will be held at Kistler-Patterson Funeral Home in Olney, Illinois. Visitation will begin one hour prior to the service at the funeral home. Interment will follow at Crest Haven Memorial Park in rural Claremont, Illinois. Dates and times will be announced.
In lieu of flowers please make a donation to your local animal shelter in memory of Harvey.
