Lonnie Franke Wright

Lonnie Wright, 48, of Moriarty, NM left this earthly plane to join Jesus in Heavens glory on October 10, 2024. He was born in Eufaula, AL to Arthur Dale Wright and Mary J. Champion Wright on October 8, 1976.

Lonnie was preceded in death by his maternal grandparents Walter Champion and Vallie Evans, his paternal grandparents Lonnie L. and Bonita Wright, and his father Arthur Dale Wright.

Lonnie is survived by thehis sons, Weston and Landon; grandson Koda; his mother Mary Wright; mother of his boys, Felicia Garcia; Mother in law Mary Garcia; sister Somer (Chris); brother Justin (Devyn), sister in law Cassandra Garcia, brother in law Tomas Garcia, nieces Eanna Wright, Molly Garcia, Amaris and Kylee Gallegos, and Julia Wright. Nephews Lonnie and Arthur Wright. Great nieces Il’Lilianna and Renezme Salmeron, and his best friend and sister Linda Kelton. Paternal uncles and aunts Lonnie (Patty) Wright, Elaine (Tommy) Bond, Steve (Kathleen) Wright, Joey (Toni) Wright, and Jewel (Carlton) Kenway. Maternal uncles and aunts Walter and Frank Champion, Eva (Rick) Sharpless, and Annie (Bennett) Cox. As well as many cousins and friends who loved him dearly.

Lonnie starting working at a very early age with his uncles in construction. When the company was closed, he continued working with his uncle Lonnie at the Rockin’ Horse Ranch. He also occasionally helped on the Schwebach farm in McIntosh, NM and drilled water wells. Lonnie could mechanic with the best of them, his first truck he built up with his friends. He was a master tractor driver from Bobcats to big front-end loaders and back hoes. He could throw down a pretty great bead when welding, also.

Behind his gruff exterior, was the biggest heart known to mankind. He had a soft spot for children, especially. All kids loved to use him as a tree or jungle gym. The older kids loved joking around with him and asking for help with mechanicing. He was a very kind soul, a one of a kind man, who would give the shirt off his back to help those who needed him.

His sons were his pride and joy. He loved coaching them in baseball and being at their games. Weston and Landon truly brought out the best in him. There were many times you would find him shooting hoops in the drive way with them. Those boys managed to score on his lumbering 6’4” tall presence quite a bit. He was very tall, but never as agile as his boys.

Lonnie loved his grandson so very much. He was so happy to show his picture to everyone and proudly say, “This is my grandson!” He was looking forward to watching him grow and probably play ball like his sons.

Lonnie fought many demons in his life. However, he returned to Jesus prior to his passing, and won all those battles. He found his sobriety in June of 2024.The family would like to especially thank Linda Kelton for not only being his best friend and sister, but going above and beyond when Lonnie got sick. You stayed there even when he was not the most loveable or likeable person. Also, Brandon and Cassie Webb for bringing Pastor Claude Cones, as well as being there for Lonnie as his friends.

There will be a private burial for family. A celebration of life to be announced for any who wish to join to celebrate Lonnie and share stories. Per family request, this will be an alcohol free celebration.