Gary Dean Wright, born November 13, 1958, passed away leaving behind a legacy of faith, generosity, and devotion to his family. A true man of God, Gary lived his life guided by righteousness, humility, and a deep commitment to serving others. He was an outsider to the world around him. A badge he quietly wore with pride.

Gary was a devoted husband to his high school sweetheart, Nyla Smith of Correctionville, IA. Their love story was one of lifelong partnership that started January 14, 1978 in Gary’s first year at Iowa State. For over 48 years their marriage was built on faith, loyalty, and unwavering support for one another.

Gary was a proud and involved father to his two sons, Justin and Jesse. He was not only their dad but a devoted coach. Gary spent countless hours coaching Little League baseball and rocking his ever so fashionable Zubaz pants on the sidelines of Knova’s youth football. He was Justin and Jesse’s biggest supporter on the sidelines of a game, music/choir concert, or in everyday life. Gary was always present despite being a working professional at Sioux Bee Honey, Metz Baking Co, or Tyson. He taught them lessons about hard work, integrity, discipline, and commitment that will live on through them. Gary finished his professional career at his self-described Dream Job. Gary was able to partner and mentor farmers across NW Iowa as a Farm Management Specialist with Iowa State University.

Those who knew Gary will remember his generous spirit. He was always willing to give his time (and his sons time with or without their knowledge), lend a hand to help move a friend or neighbor, or share whatever he had with someone in need. He was generous beyond words. He would rather live with nothing in order to provide for others. Most would agree that he looked like a beggar most of his life! Friends, and often times, complete strangers could count on Gary’s yes first approach to serving and willingness to help without expecting anything in return.

Gary’s life was a testament to his faith in Jesus. As he fought cancer, he was clear that his life doesn’t end here on earth, but only begins. He didn’t fear death. He lived his faith on his sleeve and everyone knew what he believed, including all Justin’s and Jesse’s friends growing up! If Gary wasn’t working, farming or coaching, he spent his time serving the churches he attended, the charities he supported, or enjoying bible studies. Gary spent years as an Elder at Central Baptist Church in Sioux City and spent the last few years as a Gideon in Spirit Lake.

He will be deeply missed by his beloved wife, Nyla Wright; sons Justin and Jesse (Laura Mechtenberg); grandkids Miles (17), Maxwell (14) Caroline (13), Amelia (11), William (11) and James (9), step-dad Harold Arp; half-sisters Vickie Wilson (Dale) and Lorie Wright; and the many in-laws, nieces and nephews, and friends whose life he shared with. He was preceded in death by his mother Sharlotte Arp; father Lester Wright; sister Debbie Wright; step-mom Jan Wright; brother in-law Mike Smith (Zo), and sister in-law Wren Smith (Dennis).

Gary’s memory will live on in the lessons he taught and the example he set of a life committed to serving Jesus. His passion for Iowa State athletics will be well preserved with his son Justin. And, the farms Lester and Harold entrusted to Gary, which he cared so much for, will continue to honor their hard work for generations to come.

Visitation for Gary will be held on Sunday, March 22, 2026 from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. with a Prayer Service at 6:30 p.m. at Meyer Brothers Colonial Chapel in Sioux City. A Celebration of Life will be held on Monday, March 23, 2026 at Central Baptist Church in Sioux City. In lieu of or in addition to flowers, memorial donations may be directed to The Gideons International, Siouxland Youth for Christ, or Her Health Women's Center.