11/16/2025
We are deeply saddened by the passing of a truly great man. He and his daughter built this pharmacy from nothing with hard work, heart, and a genuine desire to help everyone who walked through our doors. His kindness, humility, and dedication shaped not only this place, but all of us who had the privilege of knowing him. We mourn his loss deeply and hold his family close in our thoughts.
Cleryl Gene Wright of Fairmont, a devoted servant of the Lord, passed away on Friday, November 14, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family. Born June 12, 1945, in Alma, WV, he was the son of William W. and Hazel (Coleman) Wright. Gene grew up with a quiet strength and a deep respect for others, traits that would define every aspect of his life.
On May 4, 1968, Gene met the love of his life, Joyce. Just three months later, on August 10, 1968, they joined their lives in marriage and have cherished a lifetime of love together ever since.
In addition to his loving wife, he is survived by his daughter Terri Vilain and her husband Rodney of Fairmont; stepson, Michael Fortune and his wife Jennifer of Goochland, VA; his grandchildren, Ryan Vilain and his wife Lucianna of Morgantown; Kaitlyn Vilain of Morgantown; Andrew Fortune; Carolyn Colorado and her husband Griffin; and Savannah Fortune and her son Cameron, all of Goochland, VA; his sister, Vera Boley, LaGrange, GA; and several nieces and nephews.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his sisters, Edith Anderson; Phyllis Spencer; Velma (Peg) Wilcox; and Wilma Duty; and his twin brother, Darrel Dean Wright.
He was a graduate of Tyler County High School, 1963, and Salem University, 1982 He served in the Army Reserves and also began a dedicated career for Consolidated Natural Gas.
After retiring he worked alongside his daughter Terri, as they recognized the need for a locally owned pharmacy in Fairmont. Together they opened White Hall Pharmacy in 2006. He took great pride in helping others, always seeking new ways to support the people of the community. He valued his time serving the community but mostly the bond it brought between him and his daughter. In later years, he found deep joy and fulfillment in seeing his grandchildren carry on this tradition of service, continuing the work he helped begin.
A devoted member of the church for over 60 years, Gene served faithfully as a deacon at the Bridgeport Church of Christ, guided by a strong concern for truth and a deep sense of responsibility to his brothers and sisters in Christ. He never sought recognition; instead, he served quietly and humbly, reflecting the spirit of Christ in all he did.
Outside of work and church, Gene found joy in woodworking. He was also a proud supporter of WVU sports, always ready to cheer on the Mountaineers. Above all else, he was devoted to his family, guiding his loved ones with a Christlike example. His greatest joy came from being a husband, father, grandfather, and spiritual guide.
His legacy is one of faith, integrity, and love. He is will be deeply missed but all who knew him were blessed by his kindness and quietness.
Friends will be received at Burnside Funeral Home, 607 S. Virginia Avenue, Bridgeport, on Sunday November 16, 2025, from 2 – 6 p.m., where services will be held at 2 p.m. on Monday, November 17, 2025, with Evangelist Mark Jones presiding. Interment will follow in Marshville Cemetery.
Burnside Funeral Home, Bridgeport
