It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Kerry Lynn Wright, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and friend, on November 7, 2024, at the age of 61. Kerry was born on May 5, 1963, to Paul and Linda Wright in Huntington, Pennsylvania.
After graduating from Tussey Mountain High School in 1981, Kerry attended Shippensburg University of Pennsylvania before embarking on an extraordinary journey of service.
Kerry joined the United States Air Force in 1985 as a Nuclear Weapons Technician, serving with distinction for 28 years. During his career, he maintained, supervised, and managed every nuclear weapons system in the nation’s inventory. Kerry held numerous leadership positions, overseeing operational maintenance, testing, security, storage, and acquisition programs. Among his many achievements, Kerry received the prestigious Air Force Lieutenant General Leo Marquez Maintenance Award in 1997 and was awarded multiple decorations, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal, and Air Force Achievement Medal.
After retiring as a Chief Master Sergeant, Kerry continued his commitment to service as a Staff Analyst at Hill Air Force Base, contributing to the success of critical national defense programs. His dedication to supporting the military community also extended to his work with the Air Force Sergeants Association. As International President of AFSA, Kerry oversaw the International Board of Directors and led efforts to advocate for the quality of life of more than 75,000 military members, retirees, veterans, and their families. His leadership was instrumental in elevating the organization's visibility and impact, earning respect from military leaders, members of Congress, and decision-makers across the Department of Defense and Veterans Affairs.
Kerry’s greatest joy was his family. He met the love of his life, Karan, at Dyess Air Force Base in Abilene, Texas, in 1987. The two were married on May 16, 1988, and together they built a beautiful life, raising three sons: Kameron Paul, Konner Scott, and Karter Lynn. In 2017, Kerry welcomed his pride and joy, grandson Leo Wright, who brought endless light and laughter into his life.
A memorial and celebration of life will be held on December 7, 2024, at 2:00 PM at Kaysville City Hall, 23 East Center Street, Kaysville, UT. The family kindly requests that no flowers be sent to the venue. Instead, they encourage those who knew Kerry to honor his memory by performing an act of service in his name, reflecting the values he held dear. Donations may also be made in Kerry’s honor to the University Liver Institute, supporting research and treatment for liver health, or the Air Force Sergeants Association, an organization close to his heart.
Kerry is survived by his devoted wife, Karan Wright, sons Kameron, Konner, and Karter Wright, cherished grandson Leo Wright, Brother-in-Law Scott Sanders, parents Paul and Linda Wright, brothers Paul (Deb) Wright Jr. and Greg (Becky) Wright, sister Teresa (John) Keith, brother-in-law Scott Sanders, nieces Misti (Kelsey) Fisher, Chelsea (Cole) Barnhart, MacKenzi Wright, and Kristi (Matthew) Stein, nephews Ken Thompson and Noah Wright, great-niece Ciara Barnhart, and great-nephews Koen and Kasen Stein and Xavier Rhodes, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and close friends.
Kerry’s life was one of service, dedication, and love. He will be deeply missed but fondly remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.