David Thomas Wright, Dds

Dr. David T. Wright, 91 Lakeland Dentist Lakeland, FL " David Thomas Wright 91, previously of Haines City, FL., peacefully passed away Monday, January 25, 2016 at his home in Lakeland surrounded by his family. He is survived by his loving wife of 39 years Betty H Wright, sons William Curtis Wright (Jennifer Ready Wright) & John David Wright (Brandy Smith Wright), both of Lakeland and daughters Catherine Wright Fiesta, Lakeland, Kay Wright, Dallas TX, Charlotte Wright Boston, Colquitt, GA and 6 grandchildren Fredrick Jordan, Reyna Catherine, Aiden Connor, O""nora Lee, Keira Ashlyn and Allison Wright Boston. He is preceded in death by his daughter Jennifer Lee Wright, of Lakeland, FL. Born in Haines City, FL October 7, 1924 to parents Minetta Martha Carnes (Lowry) of Tavares, FL and William Simms Wright of Montgomery, AL. Dr. Wright was a platoon sergeant in the 75th Infantry Division and awarded the Bronze Star for heroic achievement in connection with military operations against the enemy on February 3, 1945, in France. He also fought in the Battle of the Bulge, Holland and Germany. He is a graduate of Seattle University and Marquette University Dental School where he was a member of Alpha Sigma Nu the Jesuit Honor Society and president of the student body. He moved to Lakeland and began his Dental practice in 1955. He retired in 1986. A Fellow in the International College of Dentistry, Member of the American, Florida and Polk County Dental Associations. He served as the Editor of the Florida Dental Association and was named Florida""s Dentist of the year in 1972. David was an elder in the original Highlands Presbyterian Church. He was also a longtime member of the South Lakeland Rotary Club. He was a respected member of this community, a mentor to many, a coach, a teacher and a loving husband and father. A graveside service will be held on Saturday, January 30, 2016 at 12:00 pm at Oak Hill Burial Park. Service: 01/30/2016 Graveside Service - Oak Hill Burial Park 4620 US Highway 98 South, Lakeland, FL 33812