December 10, 2025, 61, Goldsboro – James Thomas Wright, Jr., 61, ascended into Heaven and was received into Glory on Wednesday, December 10, 2025. Born in Lowell, Massachusetts on September 18, 1964, he was the son of the late James Wright Sr. and Thelma Ruth Jones Wright.
In addition to his parents, James was preceded in death by his sister, Shelia Pittman.
James is survived by his siblings, Ruth Godwin and husband, Forest, Princess Mercer and husband, David, Karen Montgomery, Lisa Tetting and husband, Doug, and Cheyenne Jones; and step-children, Antonio Outlaw and Eric Outlaw. James is also survived by numerous nieces and nephews that he loved dearly.
James was a devoted mentor, passionate basketball enthusiast, and a guiding light to countless young people in his community. A proud graduate of Goldsboro High School, Class of 1982, James carried the lessons of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance with him throughout his life.
James dedicated much of his time to mentoring youth at the W. A. Foster Recreation Center and the Boys & Girls Club, where he made a lasting impact on generations of young men and women. Through basketball and daily encouragement, he taught far more than the fundamentals of the game; he taught life lessons rooted in respect, responsibility, and self-belief. To many, James was more than a mentor; he was a role model, a coach, and a trusted friend.
His love for basketball was matched only by his commitment to uplifting others. James believed deeply in the potential of every young person he encountered, and he gave freely of his time, wisdom, and heart to help them succeed both on and off the court.
James will be remembered for his unwavering dedication to his community, his generous spirit, and the profound influence he had on so many lives. His legacy lives on through the countless individuals he mentored and inspired.
A service to celebrate James’ life will be held on Monday, December 22, 2025 at 11 a.m. with Pastor Daniel Uzzell presiding. The family will receive friends prior to the service, from 10 a.m. until 11 a.m. James will be laid to Rest at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery in Princeton.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be sent to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Wayne County NC 1401 Royall Ave, Goldsboro, NC 27530 in memory of James.
Arrangements have been entrusted to Seymour Funeral Home.
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