Stephanie Lee Wright passed away in the late afternoon of Thursday, July 8th, 2021, at the age of 51. A rainbow appeared in the eastern sky shortly after her passing that was a reminder of her vibrant life.
She was born in Fort Collins, Colorado on May 11th, 1970 to Susan and Richard Montgomery. She was the middle daughter between older sister Kelly and younger sister Tracy. She was given the nickname “Skip.” In childhood Stephanie started expressing her silly nature, learned country music from her elders, and savored her outdoor time in rural Colorado near their home in Fort Morgan. The family moved to Mesa, Arizona in 1976.
Stephanie attended Lindbergh Elementary, Irving Elementary, Taylor Junior High, and Mesa High School. She met her dear husband Paul Wright in high school and made life-long best friend Shannon Aldridge in junior high. After years of dancing on the pom team, modeling, attending cosmetology school, and working as a hairdresser and salon owner, Stephanie and Paul married on October 5, 1991. They had two beloved children— Benjamin and Emily.
Stephanie was an artist throughout her entire life. She was a part of several artist groups, including Art Unraveled. She crafted pottery at Mesa Arts Center and created elaborate props for valley theatre shows. Stephanie won AriZoni awards for her unique creations and was recognized across the valley for her work. She shared her love of art by teaching children through the Art Masterpiece program at Eduprize Charter School and she was the education manager at Joann Fabric and Craft Store. Stephanie was notorious for rescuing animals — she took care of chickens, fish, love birds, cats, and several dogs throughout her life. She was an avid gardener and nurtured many plants, flowers, vegetables, and fruit trees.
Stephanie is survived by her husband Paul, children Benjamin and Emily, parents Susan and Richard, and sisters Kelly Henry and Tracy Montgomery. She had an infectious smile, a calming affect and will be missed greatly by her extended family and many friends.
A private memorial service to honor Stephanie will be held at Desert Botanical Garden on August 7, 2021. Donations in memory of Stephanie can be made to the Arbor Day Foundation and/or the Cholangiocarcinoma Foundation. A private graveside service will follow on Monday after the memorial.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was such a vibrant, talented and loving person. She left a legacy of love.
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Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. She was such a vibrant, talented and loving person. She left a legacy of love.
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