Eugene "Gene" Wright

Eugene “Gene” Wright, 97, of Homer, NY, passed away on December 23, 2025.

Born April 22, 1928, Gene is the son to the late Ernest and Bessie Bahler Wright. Gene grew up on his family farm in Johnson City where he graduated from Union- Endicott High School and later went on to Cornell University, graduating from the School of Agriculture with a degree in Agricultural Science in 1950. In 1952, Gene married the love of his life, the late Leslie Warfield, and were married for 68 years until her passing in 2020.

He later moved to Homer, NY where he started working on a farm as a hired hand until purchasing his own farm where he was a dairy farmer until the 1980’s. Gene then transitioned to a sheep farmer until he was 80 years old. During that time, he also obtained his private pilots license in his 40’s. He was also the Cortland County Soil and Water Conservation District Chairman for 56 years, a member of the Grange for 46 years, the Homer Town Planning Board and a member of the Homer Congregational Church UCC for 74 years.

Gene is predeceased by his son, Edward Wright; his sister, Sarah Wright; and his brothers, Alan, and Jerry Wright.

He is survived by his children, William (Mary) Wright, Peter (Barb) Wright, Thomas (Kathy Raine) Wright, Betty Anne Wright, Marion (Joseph) Dabroski, Phyllis (John) Jackson, and Alfred Wright; daughter in law, Barb Sherwood; 17 grandchildren, many great grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, along with several nieces and nephews.

As per Gene’s wishes, there will be a private Green Burial at the Willow Glen Cemetery in Dryden, NY. A public celebration of life will be held at a date convenient for the family. Donations in Gene’s memory can be made to Cortland Loaves and Fishes or the Homer Methodist Church Food Pantry. Perkins Funeral Home, Dryden, NY is assisting the family.