Tributes

Arthur D. Wright, a man whose life was a testament to faith, family, and community, passed peacefully on July 14, 2026. Born on September 1, 1939, in South Gate, California, Arthur was the beloved son of Tommy and Myrtle Wright, who precede him in death. Arthur's life was a journey marked by dedication and resilience. He graduated from Centennial High School in Compton, California, in 1957, where he was a standout athlete, excelling in the 880-yard run and relays. His exceptional skills earned him a full athletic scholarship to Kansas University. Though his time there was cut short due to the racial tensions of the era, Arthur's passion for learning never waned. He went on to earn a Master of Arts Degree in Religious Studies in 1984 and a Doctor of Arts Degree in Theology and Biblical Counseling in 1990. Under the guidance of renowned scholars Dr. Butrus Abd al-Malik and Dr. Spiros Zodhiates, Arthur deepened his understanding of the Hebrew Old Testament and Greek New Testament gospel. Arthur's professional life was marked by a steadfast commitment to service. For over 30 years, he managed maintenance crews for the Lynwood Unified School District in California. He also had a successful landscaping business, embodying a work ethic; a man takes care of his family. In 1977, Arthur accepted Christ as his Savior, at Crenshaw Christian Center, a decision that transformed his life. Ordained to the work of the Gospel Ministry in 1988, he served with devotion at Cornerstone Community Church in Carson, California, and later at Agape Christian Fellowship in Los Angeles, California, and finally at First Missionary Baptist Church in Victorville, California before moving to Texas. Upon moving to Texas, he founded the home ministry of United in Christ Bible Baptist Church in Pflugerville, Texas and later served as an associate minister at One Way Baptist Church in Round Rock, Texas , and finally his beloved church where he served as an associate minister until he was called home, Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church in Elgin, Texas. Arthur's faith was the cornerstone of his life, and he was passionate about sharing the insights he received from the Holy Spirit. His love for the Word of God was matched by his enthusiasm for football, basketball, and simple pleasures like popcorn and hamburgers. Known for his sharp dressing and no-nonsense approach, Arthur was a man who valued order and excellence in all things. Arthur's legacy lives on through his beloved wife of 13 years, Sonja, his three children, Toni, Arthur Jr., and Tamara, 14 grandchildren, 29 great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren. He is also survived by four stepchildren, Ronnie, Carla, Eric, and Kimberly, and a vast circle of family members, friends, and his cherished church community. Visitation services will be held on Friday, July 31, 2026, from 6:00 PM until 8:00 PM at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, located at 400 Q.S. Goins Lane, Elgin, Texas. The service to celebrate Arthur's remarkable life will be held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at 11:00 AM at Mt. Carmel Missionary Baptist Church, located at 400 Q.S. Goins Lane, Elgin, Texas.

Tributes

Arthur Douglas Wright Sr.

September 1, 1939 - July 14, 2026