Norma Wright's Obituary
On Thursday May 2nd, 2024, Norma Jean Wright, a pillar of grace and wisdom, passed
away peacefully, leaving a legacy of love and community service. Born November 12,
1938, in New York, NY, Norma was the eldest of two children of George Worthington
Bennett and Allean Ernestine Nairn. A brilliant student at Washington Irving High
School, she excelled academically, skipping two grades and earning a full scholarship to
Howard University.
Norma began her illustrious career at Irving Trust Bank in Manhattan, where she broke
barriers as the first Black woman to hold her position. Her journey of love and
partnership began in Harlem, where she met George Wright during their middle school
years. The couple married in 1957 and moved to the Pacific Northwest for George’s
military service at Fort Lewis Army Base.
Norma continued her education in accounting and business management at Tacoma
Community College and the University of Puget Sound. She held key positions,
including roles at First Interstate Bank and as an internal auditor for Pierce County.
Norma concluded her professional career as an administrative manager for the
Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, appointed by Governor Booth Gardner.
A dedicated member of Bethlehem Baptist Church for over fifty years, an active
participant in the Tacoma Urban League Guild and The Red Hat Society, Norma was
instrumental in organizing the iconic Ebony Fashion Fair runway shows. She significantly
contributed to fundraising initiatives for local youth.
Norma’s gift of hospitality often lead to a home filled with food, friends and music.
Reflective of her passion for plants and flora, and a reputation for her green thumb and
lush, manicured gardens, she was lovingly known as affectionally “The Ficus and Fuchsia
Lady”. You could always expect her home to be graced with thriving flowers and
beautiful plants.
Norma was a passionate sports enthusiast who found joy in every game and match,
from the intensity of boxing to the excitement of basketball and football. Her love for
sports was evident whether she was cheering for her husband in the boxing ring,
supporting her children and grandchildren in their various athletic pursuits, or fervently
rooting for her beloved Seahawks. Norma's spirit as the consummate cheerleader
brought energy and enthusiasm to every event, making her an unforgettable presence
on the sidelines, whether in person or virtually.
Preceded in death by her husband, George Wright, Norma is survived and lovingly
remembered by her children, Yvette Wright Gauff and Brian Wright; her sister, Frieda
Roberts (Bert); her brother, Norman Donaldson; grandchildren Anthony Ungaro, Brianna,
Bryson, and Caleb Gauff, Jayda and Alliyah Wright; great-grandchildren Jamira and Jazz
Murray, and Ava Angus, along with numerous nephews, nieces, cousins, and friends.
Norma Jean Wright will be remembered not only for her elegance and sophistication
but also for her profound impact on everyone she touched through her mentoring and
community involvement.
What’s your fondest memory of Norma?
What’s a lesson you learned from Norma?
Share a story where Norma's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Norma you’ll never forget.
How did Norma make you smile?