Elizabeth Wright

Reflections of 85 Years of Life

Elizabeth J. Wright, affectionately known as “Muggie,” entered eternal rest on May 8, 2026, at Emory Hillandale Hospital in Lithonia, Georgia. She was born on January 31, 1941, in Brunswick, Georgia, to the late Harry Melvin Jaudon and Elizabeth Cornelia Jaudon. Elizabeth was one of nine children and was preceded in death by her sisters, Naomi Small, Mamie Evelyn Anderson, and Marian Arnette; and her brother, John Albert Jaudon.

She received her formal education through the Glynn County school system in Brunswick, Georgia, and graduated from Risley High School in 1958. She later continued her education at Berean Manual Training and Industrial School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, where she earned certification in Stenography on June 15, 1961.

From childhood until her health began to decline, Elizabeth remained a faithful and devoted member of Mt. Olive Baptist Church. She served diligently as a deaconess, choir member, financial secretary, and dedicated Sunday School attendee.

On August 26, 1961, Elizabeth was united in holy matrimony to the late Willie Lee Wright, Sr., in Brunswick, Georgia. Their loving union was blessed with three children: Willie Lee Wright, Jr., Gloria Watkins, and Darrell Wright.

Elizabeth’s passion in life centered around working with and mentoring youth. Whether serving as a paraprofessional at C.B. Greer and Ballard Elementary Schools, a swimming instructor at Selden, Orange, and Coffin Parks, or a lead staff member with the City of Brunswick Recreation Department, she poured her heart into helping others grow and succeed. Among her many accomplishments, teaching children and adults how to swim became her signature gift and legacy. Even today, the mere mention of Mrs. Wright’s name brings laughter and fond memories from former students who recall her unique teaching methods. Many remember being pushed from the diving board into the pool as she calmly instructed them to “stretch your arms out and pull the water.” Somehow, before they realized it, they had learned to swim. She was never swayed by fear or tears, but instead encouraged every student to try their best, persevere, and believe in their ability to succeed. That same philosophy guided her work in the classroom, at girls’ recreation track meets, youth basketball games, and in the loving expectations she held for her own children.

Elizabeth leaves to cherish her precious memories: her beloved children, Willie L. Wright, Jr. (Kendra), Gloria Watkins, and Darrell Wright (Pam); sisters, Mary Bowden, Rosetta Abraham, and Harriett Bell; brother, Aldren Jaudon; eight grandchildren; thirteen great-grandchildren; in-laws; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, classmates, and dear friends.