Obituary

RALEIGH – Anne Hardy Wright, age 87, passed away on Sunday, February 16, 2025. Born in Edgecombe County, NC on September 16, 1937, she was the daughter of the late Lindsey Caroline Hardy and Annie Bell Edwards Hardy. She was also preceded in death by her husband, Thomas “Tom” Dean Wright and George Earl Miller; her brothers, Reginald Talmadge, Robert Lindsey, and Franklin Roosevelt; and her sister, Linda Gray.

Anne was a loving and dedicated wife, mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother, and a cherished friend to many. Her heart was rooted in family, and her warmth extended to all who knew her—she truly never met a stranger. Anne’s gentle spirit and kindness left a lasting impression on everyone she encountered. Her faith was the cornerstone of her life. A lifelong member of St. Paul United Methodist Church, she served her church family with unwavering dedication, giving of her time and talents in countless ways over the years. Her servant’s heart reflected her deep love for the Lord, and her daily prayer, “Help me, Jesus, my Lord and Savior,” was a testament to the faith that guided her every step. Anne’s life was a beautiful example of grace, love, and steadfast faith—a legacy that will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know her.

Anne is survived by her daughters, Denise Miller Harrelson and husband, Donnie, Georgia Miller Phillips and husband, Scott, Angela Miller Bartholomew, and Elizabeth Wright Finez; her grandchildren, Ashley Harrelson Johnson (James), David Bradley Harrelson (Anna), James Chadwick Bartholomew, Casey Brooke Bartholomew, Nicholas Scott Phillips (Megan), Ryne Chandler Phillips (Erika), Sydney Morgan Finez, and Avery Elizabeth Finez; her ten great-grandchildren; and her sister, Peggy Joyner.

A Funeral Service to celebrate Anne’s Life will be held on Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 2:00 PM at St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1217 Bethlehem Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27803 with Rev. Rick Clayton and Rev. Nathan Whitman officiating. The family will receive friends and relatives on Monday, February 24, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home.

A private family entombment will take place at Rocky Mount Memorial Park Chapel of Memories Mausoleum.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made in Anne’s memory to St. Paul United Methodist Church, 1217 Bethlehem Road, Rocky Mount, NC 27803 or SECU Hospice House of UNC Health Johnston, 426 Hospital Road, Smithfield, NC 27577.

Arrangements entrusted to Wheeler & Woodlief Funeral Home & Cremation Services, 1130 N. Winstead Avenue, Rocky Mount, NC 27804. You may share memories and condolences with the family by visiting www.wheelerwoodlief.com.