Mrs. Darphine Wright's Obituary
Darphine Wright was born September 20, 1938 in Hickory, Mississippi to Otis and Bessie Lee McMillan. She was the second oldest child within a family of six children. She grew up in a rural farming community and her mother, a teacher, instructed her from the first through seventh grade.
Upon graduating high school, she moved to Meridian where she attended Harris Junior College. There she met her future husband, Melvin Wright, who worked at Jeff Anderson Memorial Hospital. They were joined in Holy Matrimony in 1962 and together raised four beautiful children: Cecil Eric, Kenneth Gerald, Benny Lee, and Melinda Renee.
Darphine Wright was a faithful wife and devoted mother. She was the epitome of a nurturer, counselor, teacher, and disciplinarian to her children. She truly embraced motherhood in all of its wondrous facets.
Her hobbies included sewing, gardening, reading, fishing and preparing delicious meals for family and friends, especially during the holidays. She would often prepare meals upon request for neighbors and friends.
It was her commitment and service to Christ which fomented her passions to live her life to the fullest. Her thirst to know God fueled her daily activities to serve others throughout the community for well over 50 years. She held many positions with CME Church including (spear heading) the founding of the local Mississippi Food Network for Zion Hill CME Church. Many people continue to feed their families or supplement meals from this food bank resource. Faithful volunteers continue to serve the community and feed the needy. She initiated the annual Missionary Youth Scholarship Program for qualified college bound students at Zion Hill CME Church.
Darphine lived her life in a spirit of humility with an unassuming, often quiet disposition. She drew people to her from many walks of life with a smile and words of kindness. She embodied a positive personality of hope.
Darphine departed this life on Sunday, April 30, 2023, at Jeff Anderson Memorial Hospital. She was surrounded by her loving husband, children and nieces when she made her transition to heaven. She leaves behind her devoted husband, Melvin, who was her rock during her married life and during her convalescence. She leaves behind: her sons: V. Laran “Pete” (Dorothy), Cecil, Kenneth, Benny (Stephanie); a daughter, Melinda (Gregory); and her grandchildren: Shcoby, Marcus, Mario, Gregory, Amber, Madison, Hannah, Annah and Bailee; sisters: Mary Anna, Alma Louise (Jack); brothers: Johnny Charles and David Monroe; and a host of other relatives and friends.
What’s your fondest memory of Darphine?
What’s a lesson you learned from Darphine?
Share a story where Darphine's kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with Darphine you’ll never forget.
How did Darphine make you smile?