George E.B. Wright

George Edward Blake Wright, PhD, 81, of Worcester, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, February 22, 2023, in the comfort of his home.

He was the adoring husband to Donna Wright, the love of his life for 57 years. He leaves a son, Matthew B. Wright, of Basel, Switzerland, a daughter, Susan J. LaPlante and husband Matthew LaPlante, grandchildren Danielle LaPlante and Hunter LaPlante, all of Millbury, and a daughter, Christine Wright-Royland and husband James Royland of Stuttgart, Germany. He also leaves five brothers, Lacy A. Wright, Jr. and his wife Jackie, Michael R. Wright, James D. Wright and his wife Cynthia, Brian G. Wright and his partner Josie, and Paul M. Wright and his wife Amanda. He also leaves stepmother Clara Wright of IL, sister-in-law Janet Wright of IL, and many cousins, nieces, nephews, friends, and colleagues. His brothers John Wright and Thomas Wright predeceased him.

George was an accomplished scientist and served as Professor of Pharmacology for over 20 years at the University of Massachusetts Medical School where he also founded the Graduate Studies program and mentored many students. After retiring from UMass Medical School, George Wright then founded GLSynthesis and enjoyed a new career turning his discoveries into potential future medicines against heart and infectious diseases.

He found his greatest pleasures in his family, traveling, literature and languages. He was an explorer outside of the laboratory, always ready to embark on a new adventure to experience the world, its joys, and the fun of meandering as a way of learning and living life. As a young married couple with a 3-month-old baby, George and Donna lived for a year in England, later repeating a similar adventure with the three young kids, taking them to Poland for a year during an exciting time in its history. George was always planning the next adventure with his wife, Donna, and any family member willing to go along.  George loved playing games and laughing with his grandchildren, who brought him immense happiness. George thrived and reveled in literature, especially James Joyce, and European history. His easy-going nature and wonderful sense of humor were a hallmark of his humanity.  Women loved and adored him, men admired and respected him. He always had a quip and a laugh to lighten the mood and fill others with joy and love. He loved music of all types, from the Beatles to Classical Jazz to Reggae to the Pet Shop Boys.

He will be missed dearly, and his legacy and light will shine through those he impacted and those who love him. To honor him, read a good book, take a long walk, people-watch while enjoying a tasty libation, sample some new cuisine, plan a trip, have a great conversation with someone you love, and donate to Parkinson’s Research by visiting www.apdaparkinsons.org or to Multiple Myeloma research by visiting www.cancer.org . Most importantly, find and rejoice in the moments of laughter and love. 

His family will celebrate his life with a time for friends and relatives to gather for Calling Hours on Saturday, March 4, from 9 a.m. until a Service of Celebration begins at 12 Noon in MERCADANTE FUNERAL HOME & CHAPEL, 370 Plantation Street, Worcester.  

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