Stephen "Steve" Wright

Stephen “Steve” T. Wright, 82, passed away peacefully with his loving wife and daughter by his side on June 1, 2025, in Augusta, Georgia.

Born on July 18, 1942, in Birmingham, Alabama, Steve was the son of Dorothy Schilling Wright and Thomas B. Wright. He grew up with a strong sense of discipline and determination that would carry him through a remarkable life both on and off the field.

Steve grew up in Louisville, Kentucky achieving the Boys Scouts highest rank, Eagle Scout. His high school alma mater, Manual High, won the 1959 State Championship beating their closest rival, 62-0, with a perfect season. He was named First Team All-State, laying the foundation for what would become an extraordinary professional career. In 2001, Steve was inducted into the Manual High School Hall of Fame and in 2023, he was inducted into the Kentucky Professional Football Hall of Fame.

Steve graduated from the University of Alabama and played college football under Coach Bear Bryant. In 1964, he was drafted in the fifth round of the NFL Draft by the Green Bay Packers. Under the legendary Coach Vince Lombardi, Steve played from 1964 -1967 and was part of the historic teams winning the last NFL Championship and Super Bowls I and II—an era that helped define modern professional football.

In 1968, Steve was traded to the New York Giants. While at the Giants, he was chosen to be the model for what is now the Walter Payton Man of the Year trophy. Over the next several years, he continued his NFL journey playing for Washington, Chicago, St. Louis Cardinals and, lastly, the World Football League. His time in professional football spanned over a decade and left an indelible mark on teammates and fans alike.

Following his retirement from football, Steve transitioned into a successful career in veterinary pharmaceutical sales. His natural charisma and work ethic served him well as he built meaningful relationships across his industry. He eventually retired from this second career with pride in all he had accomplished.

Steve also served six years in the Army Reserves—a testament to his commitment to service and country.

Beyond his professional achievements, Steve will be remembered most for his warmth and personality. His smile could light up any room, and those who knew him often spoke of his kindness and zest for life. Whether sharing stories from his playing days or simply enjoying time with dear friends, Steve brought joy wherever he went.

He is survived by his devoted wife of 50 years: Sandy Wright; and by Stephanie Gordon Johnson, his beloved daughter from his first marriage; his brother: Bruce; sister-in-law Patricia and their son, Christopher.

Steve was preceded in death by his parents: Dorothy Schilling Wright and Thomas B. Wright.

May Steve’s memory bring comfort to all who knew him and serve as a lasting reminder of a life well lived—traveling through life with a smile on his face, his humor intact, and his sweetheart by his side.

Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Road, Augusta, GA 30907, (706) 364-8484.