Richard “Dick” Ley Wright, 83, passed away on August 17, 2018 in Indiana. He was born on August 27, 1934 in Yakima, Washington to Richard W. and Margaret Wright. Dick graduated from Bainbridge Island High School in Washington in 1952. He married Judy Sarin, his childhood sweetheart in 1954, enrolled in the U.S. Air Force and served as a Staff Sergeant in the USAF Band in Europe, earning several commendations. After his service, Dick and his growing family moved to New England where he received a professional diploma in arranging and composition from Berklee School of Music in Boston. He then taught at Berklee, performed, and recorded in Boston area studios, mastering over 20 instruments.

Dick and his family moved to Las Vegas in 1970 where he performed extensively on the Strip for many years. He taught music for the Clark County School District and the Nevada School of the Arts. In 2009 he moved to Indiana with his second wife Lynda, who was also a professional musician, for “retirement” while continuing to gig and arrange music. Throughout his entire 83 years, Dick loved music above all else.

Dick is survived by his sister Nancy Lindenberg, brother Jimmie Wright (Linda), his first wife Judy Wright, children Cheri Vetter (Kevin), Steven Wright (Erica), David Wright (Rosa), Sue Wright, Alan Wright (Karin), and eleven grandchildren. In addition to his parents, he is preceded in passing by his second wife Lynda and son Gary Wright.

A memorial will be held at the Suncoast Hotel & Casino, 9090 Alta Dr. in Las Vegas, Nevada on Saturday, September 22 at 12 noon. Fellow musicians are encouraged to bring instruments to take part in a jam session and musical tribute to Dick Wright – for his last gig.

In lieu of flowers, contributions can be made in Dick’s name to the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation (themmf.org) or the Musicians’ Union of L.V. Local 369 (www.musicians.vegas). Condolences may be sent to the Wright Family, 3336 Giliam Court, Las Vegas, Nevada, 89129.