Lester E. Wright Sr. was born April 29, 1922, in Long Branch, NJ. Lester peacefully went home on April 20, 2026, with his loving daughter, Doreen, by his side.
Lester proudly served his country in the United States Army during World War II from 1942 until his Honorable Discharge in 1945. He was a rifle sharpshooter. Lester fought in Central Europe and Northern France. Lester was decorated with the American Theater Ribbon, European African Middle Eastern Theater Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, Victory Ribbon and Four Bronze Battle Stars.
Lester, along with his late wife of 81 years, Adele, owned and operated the Long Branch Dental Laboratory. The Long Branch Dental Lab was the first Black owned and operated dental laboratory in Long Branch, NJ.
During the 1950’s, Lester was involved with the black youth in many ways including a troop with the Boys Scouts and the Long Branch Community Center.
Lester was an avid runner from his high school days until he was 100 years old. He won two gold medals for his win at the Penn Relays. One at the age of 76 and the last one at the age of 100 where he had a world record-breaking finish in the 100-meter dash for a centurion.
On September 26, 1942 Lester married his childhood sweetheart, Adele Fields. Four children were born of this union. Six grandchildren, fifteen great-grandchildren and twelve great-great grandchildren.
Lester was predeceased by his loving wife Adele, his sons Lester Wright Jr. and Joseph Wright.
He leaves to cherish his memory his daughters Doreen Wright and Carolyn McCain; grandchildren Michael Wall, Ronald Brown, John Wall, Rachel McConnell, Corinne Hood, and Brian Wall; his great and great-great grandchildren; nieces and nephews.
Lester’s love and devotion made this world a better place. He will be missed.
