Joseph Cox Wright, age, 78 of Independence, VA passed away at his home on Tuesday, Oct. 31, 2023.  He was born in Elk Creek, VA on December 3, 1944, to Mitchell and Josephine Catron Wright.  In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his son, Kevin Wright and an infant daughter, Rhonda Wright.

Joe loved the Lord and his family.  He loved racing and was a familiar face to the racetracks of Rural Retreat and Elk Creek Dragway.  He loved to sing and was a talented musician playing the guitar and keyboard.  He was the song leader at his church, Blood Bought Baptist Church in Galax, VA.  He was an antique car enthusiast and was very knowledgeable about the history and production of many automobiles.

He is survived by his daughter, Brenda Wright of Powhatan, VA; one son, Michael and Phobe Wright of Powhatan; two grandchildren, Michaela and Jon Speas of Roanoke, VA; Mariah and Nick Gray of Powhatan, VA; one great grandson, Samuel Speas of Roanoke; a host of cousins, friends, a special church family also survive.

Memorial services will be conducted on Sunday afternoon, November 5, 2023, at 2:00 PM at the Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home Chapel with Bro. Danny Tolley officiating.  The family will receive friends following the memorial service. Inurnment will follow at a later date at the Lebanon Cemetery in Elk Creek, VA.

Reins-Sturdivant Funeral Home in Independence, VA is serving the Wright family.