Thomas Joseph Wright, Sr., age 72, of Brownstown, passed away late Wednesday evening, September 30, 2026, at Columbus Regional Hospital with his family by his side.

Mr. Wright became a member of Brownstown United Methodist Church after his marriage to his wife, Terri. Tom was also a dedicated member of the United States National Guard, where he proudly served his country for three years.

Tom was an avid race fan, and attending races was truly one of his greatest joys. Several times a year, he and his wife and family members traveled across the United States in their motor home, visiting various racetracks, enjoying the excitement of the races together, and forming lasting friendships with fellow racing enthusiasts. Tom loved writing and publishing articles and taking photographs to capture memories of their many race trips, while working at the Brownstown Banner. During their trips, Tom always had a passion for exploring and finding unique restaurants.

Professionally, Tom was a dedicated and hardworking man who took pride in his work and in serving his community. He began his career as motorcycle mechanic at Collins, Inc., where he worked for several years before the company closed. He then worked at M & E Honda for several years before beginning his career in law enforcement and corrections as a jailer at the Jackson County Jail. He later became a Jackson County Community Corrections Officer before joining the Brownstown Police Department, where he proudly served as a police officer for 22 years before retiring. He devoted his life to protecting and serving the residents of Brownstown, helping ensure the safety of local businesses and supporting students and families throughout the community, especially through his involvement with the D.A.R.E. program.

Following his retirement from law enforcement, Tom worked at NTN Driveshaft for several years, serving as a team leader and shipping clerk.

Family was of utmost importance to Tom. He loved his family dearly and cherished the time he spent with them, especially traveling and making memories together. He especially treasured the time he shared with his grandchildren and took great pride in being a loving and devoted grandfather. Tom also loved his dogs and took great pride in his daily walks with them throughout Brownstown.

Tom was an active 50-year member of Washington Lodge No. 13 F. & A.M., where he served as a Past Master Mason, and was also a longtime member of the Brownstown Exchange Club.

Born on September 19, 1954, in Indianapolis, Tom was the son of Frank and Dorothy (Hinton) Wright, both of whom preceded him in death. On November 27, 1976, at Brownstown United Methodist Church, he married Teresa "Terri" Riggs, and she survives in Brownstown.

Survivors also include two sons: Thomas Joseph "T.J." (Joy) Wright, Jr. of Scottsburg, and Aaron (Kelsi) Wright of Columbus; four grandchildren: Adriana Wright, Kelby Wright, Tate Wright, and Emerson Wright; and several nieces, nephews, and cousins.

Funeral services for Thomas Joseph Wright, Sr., will be conducted at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., Brownstown. Friends may call from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc., and from 10:00 a.m. until the time of the service at 11:00 a.m. on Tuesday, October 6, 2026, at the funeral home.

A Masonic service will be held at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026, at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Interment will be at Fairview Cemetery, Brownstown.

Memorials may be given to the Jackson County Sheriff Department Animal Shelter or Christian Academy of Madison (CAM).

Funeral arrangements have been entrusted to the caring staff at Spurgeon Funeral Home, Inc.

Online memories and condolences may be given at www.spurgeonfh.com