Pastor Joe Wright

Pastor Joe Wright, a cherished leader and beloved friend, passed away on August 10, 2024, at the age of 81. Born on February 14, 1943, Joe dedicated his life to ministry, music, and the people he held dear.

Immediately following high school graduation, Joe served in the U.S. Army where he worked closely with the chaplain, deepening his faith and inspiring his heart for ministry. Upon his discharge, Wayne Smith, Joe’s father in the faith, funded his Bible college education.

For seven years, he traveled the world with The Gospel Couriers, creating lasting friendships while sharing his musical talents. Alongside his wife, the quartet appeared on a weekly television show for The Revival Fires, bringing joy and encouragement to many. Joe began his first located ministry as senior pastor at First Christian Church in Wauchula, Florida, followed by Okolona Christian Church in Louisville, Kentucky. In 1987, he became the senior pastor of Central Christian Church in Wichita, Kansas, where he faithfully served for 20 years. After experiencing restlessness in retirement, Joe returned to Wichita and co-pastored at LifeChange Church alongside John Henry, continuing his lifelong mission of shepherding others.

Pastor Joe was known for his larger-than-life personality. He made hundreds of friends around the globe, dedicating time to knowing and appreciating each one. His distinct laughter and generous spirit shone brightly in all his interactions. Friends recall his frequent late-night texts composed almost entirely of capital letters, exclamation points, and emojis. It was not uncommon for him to have multiple lunch appointments in a single day, or to take time to greet every staff member and patron upon entering a restaurant.

His proudest accomplishments include establishing His Helping Hands Ministry in Wichita, a program that supports locals facing hardships while spreading the love and message of Christ. Pastor Joe also played a pivotal role in the fight against abortion in Wichita. Choices Medical Clinic was founded in 1999 to provide support and alternatives to those facing unplanned pregnancies. His advocacy for this ministry endured throughout his life.

In February of 1996, Joe prayed what was to become a famous prayer in the Kansas House of Representatives, garnering world-wide attention from media outlets such as Paul Harvey's radio show. To this day, the prayer continues to circulate online and other various platforms. His family jokingly refers to it as “the prayer that will never die."

A fervent sports fan, Pastor Joe loved cheering for the University of Kentucky basketball team. Traveling was one of his favorite hobbies. He enjoyed long road trips and sailed on countless cruises. Card games with friends were one of the highlights of his week. He also delighted in nightly competitions with Lois while watching Wheel of Fortune and Jeopardy. His vibrant personality even led him to appear on The Price is Right, where he jokingly claimed to be in the business of “fire insurance,” followed by his signature laugh.

Pastor Joe had many talents and quirks. He could make a great pot of chili (served on top of spaghetti). He won several cruise ship karaoke competitions, singing Nat King Cole's greatest hits. He loved experiencing other cultures but would butcher any pronunciation of foreign words. Joe was known to stage elaborate practical jokes at his friends' expense. Few people knew that Lois wrote most of his high school essays, in addition to several sermons. He will always be remembered saying, "Hate the sin, love the sinner.", "Jesus loves you and so do I!", and "I love you…more than you’ll ever know!"

He was preceded in death by his devoted wife, Lois Cook Wright; his parents, Ikey and Margaret Wright; and his brother, Jimmy Wright. He leaves behind a loving family, including his brother David Wright, sister-in-law Carolyn Wright, daughter Laura Sack, son-in-law Joseph Sack, granddaughter Sydney Schlueter, and his sister and brother-in-law, Margaret and Philip Ho, along with their son Jerry Ho and daughter Christi Syiem, and his nephews David Wright and Benjamin Wright and nieces Beth Wright and Caroline Logan. 

Pastor Joe Wright's legacy of love, laughter, and unwavering faith will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

In lieu of flowers, a memorial has been established with LifeChange Church Wichita, 10225 E. Kellogg Dr., Wichita, KS 67207