David J. Wright, Jr., 82, of Beaumont, passed away on January 11, 2013, surrounded by his loving family, at Harbor Hospice, Beaumont.

David was born on May 8, 1930, in Youngstown, Ohio, to Thelma Wagner Wright and David J. Wright. He married Karen Simank, his wife of fifty-one years, on August 27, 1960.  After military service in the United States Army during the Korean Conflict, David obtained his Ph.D. in clinical psychology in 1958 from the University of Houston.  He practiced his chosen profession tirelessly for over fifty years, helping thousands.  He was a beloved brother, father, and grandfather.  He was a source of boundless knowledge, quick wit, and sound judgment.  He was a gentle soul and a man of character and faith, who will be missed not only by those who knew and loved him, but by the community that he served.

Survivors include his children, Derik Wright and his wife, Jill, of Robinson and Kami Barnett and her husband, David, of Beaumont; brother, Robert Wright and his wife, Stephanie, of Rockville, Maryland; grandchildren, Jonathan and Caroline Barnett of Beaumont and Dillon Wright of Robinson; nieces, Kate and Deb; and nephew, Rob.

He is preceded in death by his parents; and wife, Karen Wright.

A gathering of Dr. Wright’s family and friends will be from 5:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, January 15, 2013, at Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.  His funeral service will be 10:00 a.m., Wednesday, January 16, 2013, at Wesley United Methodist Church, 3810 North Major Drive, Beaumont, with interment to follow at 12:30 p.m. at Haven of Rest Cemetery, Beaumont.

The family gives special thanks to Shelia Mark, Aline Platt, J.T. Beckman, Lynn Poole, the therapy and nursing staff at Jefferson Rehabilitation, Wesley United Methodist Church, as well as all the caregivers at Harbor Hospice of Beaumont for their loving care and generous support.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Texas Children’s Hospital, P.O. Box 300630, Suite 5214, Houston, Texas  77230-0630.