Richard "Mark" Wright

Richard “Mark” Wright, 72, of New Philadelphia, passed away suddenly at his home on Thursday, May 7, 2026. 

Born on January 25, 1954, in Newcomerstown, Ohio. Mark was the son of the late Clifford and Mary (Angelo) Wright. He was a graduate of New Philadelphia in 1972 and later earned his bachelor’s degree from Kent State University in Criminal justice. 

Following college, Mark was commissioned as a 2nd Lieutenant through the ROTC program and immediately entered the United States Air Force, where he proudly served his country for eight years. During his military career, he lived throughout Europe in England, Belgium, and South Korea to name a few places.He earned numerous honors and commendations during this time, including the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with One Device, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Two Devices, Air Force Longevity Service Ribbon, Air Force Small Arms Expert Marksmanship Ribbon with One Device, Air Force Training Ribbon, Security Police Function Master Badge, and the Air Force Long Tour Overseas Ribbon with One Device.

After his honorable military service, Mark continued his career in law enforcement, serving with the Police Air Force and later with the Civilian Police for the Pentagon for 25 years until his retirement in 2011.

Mark was an avid reader and a talented writer who especially enjoyed reading political thrillers. He was also a devoted movie buff with a special fondness for classic gangster films and sci- fi movies. Mark was a generous and kind soul who loved the lord and his Catholic faith. He will be remembered for his indomitable spirit, intelligence, dedication to service, and deep appreciation for his family and for those close friends who became family over the years. 

He is survived by his sister, Susan (David) May of New Philadelphia; brother, Timothy Wright of New Philadelphia; nieces, Megan Edwards (fiancé, James Harper), Gina Edwards, and Ashley Edwards; and his great-nieces and great-nephews, Lily Beachy, Reese Harper, Roman Harper, David (Kelsey) May, Matthew (Michelle) May, Rebecca (Kane) Smith, Kase Smith, and Nina May.

Friends are invited to call at the Toland-Herzig Funeral Home & Crematory in Dover on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, from 10-11:00 am. A graveside service will be held at Calvary Cemetery in New Philadelphia, Ohio, at 11:30 am with Father Jeff Coning officiating. The New Philadelphia VFW will conduct military honors. 

To sign an online guestbook for Mark, visit the obituary link on the funeral home’s website. Memorial Contributions may be made to the American Heart Association.