Atty. James Wright

CANFIELD - A Mass of Christian Burial will be held Wednesday at noon at St. Michael’s Church in Canfield for Atty. James R. Wright, 88, who passed away peacefully Friday morning at The Inn at Ironwoodwith his family by his side.

Jim was born July 22, 1930, in Youngstown, a son of the late John and Mary (Martin) Wright.

After graduating from Ursuline High School, Jim entered night school at Youngstown College (now YSU) while working full-time as a laborer in the steel mills. After four years, he earned a business degree and immediately enlisted in the U.S. Navy. He enjoyed serving during the Korean Era and was fortunate to visit some 15 different countries.

After his tours at sea, Jim returned to Youngstown and once again, while working full-time, enrolled in night classes – this time at Youngstown College’sLaw School – and was admitted to the bar in 1960. His career as an attorney spanned the next 50 years.

The true light of his life was his wife, the former Myra E. Flynn, whom he married July 8, 1961. She passed away May 10, 2016. Their marriage was blessed by many interests they had in common, including genealogy, history, and travel. Jim and Myra raised their three children in Columbiana, where he served on St. Jude’s Parish Council and taught Sunday school there. He served on the Columbiana Board of Education and was the first municipal attorney under the Columbiana Village Charter. He also served as president of the Columbiana County Bar Association.

Jim’s hobby of Civil War studies developed later in life. He lectured to many groups, led battle field tours, and contributed to several books. Jim wrote a number of historical articles published and distributed nationally.

He leaves his two daughters, Mary Wright and Jenny Wright both of Canfield; three grandchildren, Alec Wright Falkner of Davis, Calif., Mackenzie Wright of Canfield, and Ian Wright of Fayetteville, N.C.; a sister, Mary Jane Weber of Boardman; and numerous nieces and nephews and their families, whom he loved dearly. He will be remembered fondly by many for his quick Irish wit.

Jim was also preceded in death by a son, Michael “Mick” Wright; and a brother, John “Jackie” Wright.

Family and friends may call from 10:30 to 11:45 a.m. at the church on Wednesday.

In lieu of flowers, material tributes may take the form of donations to a charity of the donor’s choice.

The family would like to thank The Inn at Ironwood, where Jim truly enjoyed the care of staff as well as friendships with his neighbors.

Professional arrangements are being handled by the Higgins-Reardon Funeral Homes, Boardman-Canfield Chapel.