Julian Robert Wright

St. George, UT - Julian Robert Wright, age 87, a beloved husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, peacefully passed away on January 15th, 2024, in St. George, Utah. He was surrounded by the warmth of his loved ones.

Born on April 20, 1936, in Salt Lake City, Utah, Julian was the cherished son of Lurla Darlene Harrington and Milo James Wright. On May 5, 1953, he embarked on a lifelong journey of love and partnership by marrying Sherlene Toone in Salt Lake City.

He was raised in Salt Lake City and spending parts of his childhood in Nebraska and Missouri with relatives, he attended South High School and later served in the U.S. Army Reserves.

Julian's early years were marked by a vibrant personality and an innate ability to make friends easily. There was never a stranger in the room. He made friends with strangers every day he ventured out. He made you feel important when you were in front of him. He wanted to know what was going on in your life. 

A dedicated professional, Julian devoted the majority of his career to the insurance industry, working as an agent and broker in Tacoma, WA, and San Diego, CA. He finished his career with SCF Insurance with his and Sherlene’s dear friend Ingrid Van Moppes. They never missed a Saturday check-in phone call with her. He would tell you that he actually had close to 100 jobs in his lifetime starting at the age of 5 when he would get a nickel from the neighborhood bakery to take used oil to the local auto repair.  

He was one of the youngest caddies in Sugar House to well-known professional golfers in the late 1940’s.  He dearly wanted to be a professional golfer. In fact, his successful wagers with his golf buddies would almost always more than cover his green fees.  He was a scratch player in his prime. Following his successful career, he retired to the serene beauty of St. George and was able to further indulge in his passion for golf.  

His love of good food was another big passion for Julian. He approached meals with an enthusiasm that went beyond the dining table; as one meal concluded, he eagerly started planning the next one. He was endearingly known for his love of nuts in everything, including adding nuts where nuts didn’t belong. Following his passion for golf and food, he had a fondness for model trains and train rides.  He had a model train track installed and suspended from the ceiling of his work office at SCF Insurance.

Julian was known for his playful spirit, often initiating water fights, especially during family reunions. He was also known for bringing a garden hose into the home for the sake of victory.

Together with his wife of 70 years, Sherlene, Julian found joy in travel, always taking the lead in planning family adventures and activities. His zest for life and exploration created enduring memories for his children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.

Julian is survived by his devoted wife, Sherlene Wright; loving children: Bryan Wright of San Diego, CA; Tamra Wright (John Noakes) of Walnut Creek, CA; Jennifer Woodwell (Joe) of Celina, TX; Randy Wright (Collette) of South Jordan, UT; Nicole Barnes of St. George, UT; along with 18 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren, with more on the way. He is also survived by his remaining sibling Toni Como of Roseville CA., and many close and dear cousins, nieces and nephews. 

A celebration of Julian's life will be planned for a future date, allowing family and friends to come together and honor his legacy. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the compassionate staff at Coral Desert Rehabilitation Center for their tender care during Julian's final days.

In remembrance of Julian Robert Wright, may his vibrant spirit, love for life, and cherished memories forever live on in the hearts of those who had the privilege of knowing him.