Bernard Wright

Obituary For Bernard Wright

On Easter Sunday, April 5, 2026, as the world celebrated the Resurrection, Bernard Wright, Sr., answered the call to his eternal home.

Born on May 28, 1975, in Greensboro, Georgia, Bernard, Sr. was the cherished son of Vera Wright-Gresham and Howard Gresham, and was also the beloved son of Edward Wright, Jr.

Growing up in the heart of Greene County, Bernard's world was centered between the Railroad with his Auntie Sippie - and his parents on Carey Station. It was in these neighborhoods that he first learned the value of community and the strength of family bonds.

These early lessons were reinforced by his grandfather, Cornelius Johnson, Sr., from whom Bernard learned that a man's worth was found in his word and the work of his hands. Under the watchful eye of his family, he developed the grit that would define his path, eventually spending over 35 years as a pillar of the Middle Georgia timber industry. He became a master of his craft, known across the region for his mechanical brilliance and a relentless work ethic.

While Bernard made his name in the woods, he anchored his soul in the Lord. He was baptized 22 years ago at Macedonia Missionary Baptist Church, a milestone that marked his commitment to Christ.

Though he was always a man of principle, those closest to him saw his faith and his love for the Lord Jesus truly strengthen during his recent health journey. In the quiet moments of his greatest physical trials, his reliance on God deepened, providing a steady foundation for the legendary kindness he showed everyone.

Bernard's greatest joy, however, was found in the life he built with his loving wife, Athena Rena. Their story was one of patience and deep roots, beginning long before they officially said "Ido." After 12 years of dating and building a foundation of friendship, Bernard finally decided it was time to make it official.

In a classic display of his practical heart and sense of humor Bernard told Rena “Lets of it all in one whoop"- deciding to get married on her birthday, which also happened to be Valentine’s Day. Wed on February 14, 2005, they transitioned from a decade of courtship in a 21year journey of un wavering partnership. Rena stood as his rock through every season, a testament to a love that was as intentional as it was deep – a bond that spanned a total of 33 years.

He is now reunited with grandparents Cornelius Sr. and Dora Bell, as well as aunts and uncles: Princella, Particia Luther and Carl.

Bernard is survived by his devoted wife Athena Rena; his children: Bernard Jr., Jakala Nevaeh and Spencer Charles; his brothers: Terry and Antonio, niece and little sister, Erica; his doting aunts and uncles: David, Edward(Judy), Cornelius jr., McArthur (Sherri), Ricky (Melissa), Joseph, Mammie, Calvin and Melvin and a host of nieces, nephews, extended family, other relatives and friends.

Funeral Service:
Date: Sunday, April 12th, 2026
Time: 2 PM
Location: First Methodist Church (Lake Campus)
4741 Carey Station Rd, Greensboro, GA 30642

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