Ralph E. Wright

  Ralph E. Wright, age 79, of Coalton, and a former resident of Columbus, passed away Friday, June 12, 2026, at Chillicothe Post Acute Nursing Facility. He was born April 18, 1947 in Hollister, Ohio, son of the late Rufus Wright and Marie Starcher Wright. Ralph enlisted in the United States Army and served his country during the Vietnam War. He was a cook during his service time and loved to cook for his “brothers” and fellow troops whenever he could. Once Ralph completed his tour in Vietnam, he attended some of the most reputable cooking schools and became a chef. He retired following a long-time career as chef at the Winding Hollow Country Club in New Albany, Ohio. Ralph was talented at woodworking and was known to have made many beautiful items to share with others. In his spare time, he enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time with family, especially the grandkids. Ralph never met a stranger. He was always so kind to everyone and volunteered to feed the homeless whenever he could. Ralph was a devout deacon at the Maize Road Baptist Church in Columbus where he and his wife attended for 25 years. He is survived by his wife of 58 years, Diana L. Allen Wright; son, William “Bill” Wright (Jackie); daughter, Christina Fisher (Ron), along with 4 grandchildren, 8 great-grandchildren, and several nieces and nephews. Besides his parents, he was preceded in death by his brother and sisters, Robert Wright, Delma Lenigar, Edith Allen and Thelma Moody. Calling hours will be Thursday, June 18, from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m. at the McWilliams Funeral Home in Wellston. Funeral service, with military honors, will follow the calling hours at 2 p.m. with Pastor Shawn Hensley officiating. In keeping with Ralph’s wishes, cremation will follow the services In lieu of flowers, the family would appreciate donations be made at https://gofund.me/bd5c70584. Online condolences can be sent to the family at www.mcwilliams-funeralhoome.com.