Melva Wright

Melva Jean Wright, 89, passed away on December 22, 2025. She was born to the late Lena Harris and Frank Gates on November 7, 1936 in Cleveland, Tennessee.

Melva was a strong woman, who loved her family fiercely. She instilled in them a deep love and respect for this world- people, plants, and animals. She taught them to always do things the right way, even when it's harder. Melva was known for her sarcasm, and quick wit. She enjoyed gardening, and teaching her children and grandchildren her way of cooking and canning. She spent lots of time sitting on her porch, and listening to Gospel music. She loved to sing, and had a song for every occasion. Melva attended First Baptist Georgetown. She was a devoted mother, wife, Mamaw, and friend. She will be missed tremendously.

In addition to her parents, Melva is preceded in death by her 8 siblings, husband, Paul "Cotton" Wright, daughter, Tonya Wright Shope, son, Alan Wright, and her adopted daughter, Carolyn Jack.

Melva is survived by her children, Debra (Danny) Cross, Mickey Wright, Sheri (Tim) Ledford, grandchildren, Nathan (Jane) Cross, Aaron (Amanda) Shope, Jake (Heather) Cross, Cassie (Todd) Cross-Johnston, Janie Wright, Justin (Sarah) Wright, Brandon Wright, Brittany (Madison) Cole, Kelli (Allen) Earnhart, Jennifer Wright, and 9 great-grandchildren.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, December 26, 2025 at 12:00 pm at Companion Funeral Home - The Cleveland Chapel. The family will be receiving friends from 10:00 am - 12:00 pm prior to the service. A graveside service is to follow at Earls Cemetery.

You are invited to share a personal memory of Melva your condolences with her family at her online memorial located at www.companionfunerals.com. Companion Funeral Home of Cleveland and the Cody family are honored to assist the family with these arrangements.