John Clayton Wright, age 80 of Gurley, passed away recently. Funeral services were held on Wednesday, April 1, 2026 from the Scottsboro Funeral Home Chapel. Interment followed in the Gurley Cemetery.
Mr. Wright is survived by wife, Kimberly Wright; mother, Shirley Wright; his children; Theresa (Mitch) Mitchell, Annette Wilson, and Angie (Art) Taylor; two stepchildren, Chris (Dean) Tidmore and Crystal (Brad) Lackey; five grandchildren, Joshua (Kaitlyn) Wilson, Jacob (Ashleigh) Taylor, Christian Mitchell, Alyssa (Chace) Streeper, and Tyler Mitchell; two step-grandchildren, Tiffanie (Chris) Brewster, Brittney Mitchell; two great grandchildren, Ally and Ava Clair; and two step great grandchildren, Alexa Grace and Paxton; five siblings; and former spouse, Doris Laansoo.
Mr. Wright was preceded in death by his 5 siblings; and his father, John David Wright.
John was the oldest of eleven children and a devoted father to his three girls,
He was a remarkable man whose life was defined by his Christian faith, service, strength, and unwavering love for his family.
John was a proud Air Force Vietnam veteran who dedicated his years of life to serving his country with honor, courage, and commitment.
Following his military career, he continued his calling to serve and protect by entering law enforcement.
He started his police career in Hollywood, Alabama, then he started the first police department in Skyline, Alabama and ultimately retired as Chief of Police in Gurley, Alabama.
In every role he held, John led with integrity, resilience, and a steadfast sense of duty.
John was an amazing husband to Kimberly, and they shared a wonderful 16 years of marriage together.
Known for his incredible strength-both physical and emotional-John faced life’s challenges head on and never wavered in his support for those he loved.
He was the kind of man who showed up, stood firm, and gave everything he had to the people and causes that mattered most.
John Clayton Wright leaves behind a legacy of service, love, and unshakable character. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered by all who had the privilege of know him.
