Edward Michael (Mike) Wright, age 71, went to see Jesus face to face on Friday, October, 20, 2017, in Midland, Texas. He was the oldest of 6 sons to Charlie and Virginia Wright, born on May 30, 1946, in Jacksonville, Florida.In the summer of 1965, he saw Rebecca Rusler at the Fire Station Park in San Angelo, Texas. He tells the story, and always said, “It was love at first sight for me, but it took Becky a while to catch up”. They were married the next March. Becky was his best friend, true companion, and love of his life.On March 18, 1975, Mike gave his life to the Lord and began his lifelong work in ministry. He went to Seminary in 1980 in Kansas City, Missouri. He served on staff at several churches over the years including 9 years at 2nd Baptist Church in Odessa. He ended his work on earth at 1st Baptist Church, Iraan, Texas, where he pastored for 24 years.Mike loved banana pudding and sweet tea, gospel music and ping pong, little kids and senior citizens, and hanging out at the post office. He loved his family and his friends, people he barely knew, his community and his church. Most of all he loved the Lord.Mike is survived by wife, Becky Wright of Iraan, Texas, daughter Amie Shelton and husband Joel of Midland, Texas, daughter Gretchen Mann and husband Richard of Midland, Texas, 2 grandchildren (his pride and joy) Grace and Landry Shelton of Midland, Texas. Brothers Harry Wright, James Wright and wife Sharon, Chuck Wright and wife Donna, Kelly Wright and wife Angela, Marty Wright and wife Cyndi, sister in law Paula Smith and husband Jerry, sister in law Sandy Rusler, a whole slew of nieces and nephews, numerous cousins, 5 grand dogs, and a handful of stray cats. Last but not least, honorary family Keith Green, who the family refers to as “brother by kidney”, and wife Pennie.Visitation will be held at Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory in Midland, Texas on Tuesday, October 24th from 6-8pm. There will be a memorial service at Iraan/Sheffield High School Auditorium in Iraan, Texas on Wednesday, October 25th at 3:30pm. A private family graveside will be held in Midland.A memorial donation, in lieu of flowers, can be made to First Baptist Church Iraan building fund.Arrangements are under the direction of Nalley-Pickle & Welch Funeral Home & Crematory of Midland. Online condolences can be made to www.npwelch.com.,
