James Wright

A memorial service for James Alvis Wright was held Thursday, Jan. 16, at Oak-Crest Funeral Home, Waco. The retired Texas Ranger Captain was laid to rest in the Texas State Cemetery in Austin Jan. 17.

Mr. Wright passed away Jan. 3, 2025.

Born Aug. 22, 1929, in Hamilton County to Armon and Estella Wright, he graduated Hamilton High School in 1947, then worked for John Deere Implement Co. in Waco.

He married Laura Harcrow of Fort Worth Feb. 19, 1949. Together they had two sons, William Alvis and James Ray.

James entered the Texas Highway Patrol Jan. 3, 1957, and served 12 years in Falls and Bosque counties.

On Sept. 1, 1969, James joined the Co. “F” Texas Rangers at Waco and then Co. “B” in Dallas when promoted to Sergeant in 1981. In 1986, He was promoted to Captain. James retired in 1991 after 35 years with DPS.

After the passing of his first wife, Laura, he married Laurel Fette of Woodway in 2010.

James was a 50-year member and Past Master of the Clifton Masonic Lodge #360 and former member of the Clifton Lions Club. He was also a member of the Jaycees for several years, serving as president for two years.

After retirement, he became a member of the Texas Sherrif’s Association and the Texas Police Officers Association. James was a past president of the North Texas Coordinating Council on Law Enforcement.

He was an active member of the First Baptist Church in Hewitt.

James was preceded by his parents, Armon and Estella; first wife of 60 years, Laura Harcrow Wright (d. 2009); son William (Bill); grandchildren Steven and Anne Backus; and siblings Jerrell (wife Margie), Lorraine (husband Tatum) and Elmer (wife Louise).

He is survived by his wife, Laurel Fette Wright; son Jimmy and wife Phyllis; daughter-in-law Verna Beth; stepson, Jerry Fette Jr.; grandson James Matthew and wife Brandie; many nieces, nephews and cousins; and a host of dear friends.

Memorial donations may be made to Texas Ranger Association Foundation or Donate Life America.