Ernest Wright, Sr. was born on August 28, 1932, in Bradenton, Florida, to the late Chester Wright, Sr. and Everlina Wright.
Ernest was educated in Manatee County, and graduated from Lincoln Memorial High School in 1950. He then matriculated to Florida A&M University where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in 1954.
Ernest’s spiritual growth began at an early age at Mt. Pleasant Methodist Church, Bradenton Florida, known today as Rogers Community United Methodist Church. He reunited with Rogers Community United Methodist Church after returning to Manatee County and remained a member until his passing.
Ernest is a product of the “The Marching 100” family, having played in the band as a student, before going on to a career as a high school band director and music teacher at Tivoli High School in DeFuniak Springs, FL. He later taught music in Plant City, FL and eventually returned to Manatee County where he taught music at Lincoln Middle School, Palmetto, FL until retiring.
Ernest was an accomplished musician and played with local bands while attending college. He continued performing with local bands and eventually began performing solo at local hotels and venues in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. He also served as musician for the Rogers Community U. M. Church and other churches in the Bradenton and Palmetto communities.
Ernest leaves to cherish his memory, former spouse, Helen McKinnon, St. Petersburg, FL, sons, Ernest Wright, Jr. (Aurelia), Jacksonville, FL and Cedric Stafford (Diann), Woodstock, Georgia; grandchildren, Alana J. Wright, St. Petersburg, FL, Alyssa J. Wright, Jacksonville, FL, and Douglas Stafford, St. Petersburg FL; a brother, Robert Wright, Sarasota, FL and a host of nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
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