She was born on Oct. 12, 1925, to Robert Sidney and Lucy Ella Carter Hostetter, the ninth of 10 children. She was predeceased by all her brothers and sisters.

She married Howe Sweet in 1957 but lost him in a 1959 accident. Ethel was remarried to Thurman Wright for 47 1⁄2 years and was his loving, fulltime caregiver until his passing in 2019.

Ethel was a lifelong member of Lauderdale A.R. Presbyterian Church and the Janet White Circle, where she served as president. She had a deep dependence on her faith in Christ and credited the Lord for giving her strength during difficult times. Ethel was well known and loved in the community. Many will remember her from the State Farm Insurance office where she retired, and being the local Avon lady.

Ethel is survived by Thurman’s children, Mark Wright (Janet) and Chris Wright (Michelle) of Buena Vista, Dale Wright of Georgia, and Kathy Wright (Ronnie Chittum) of Rockbridge Baths. She is also survived by nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren, as well as a host of nieces and nephews. She will be greatly missed by family, friends, and neighbors alike.

Ethel’s family would like to thank all of her devoted caregivers for the loving kindness and support provided during the past few years.

A funeral for Ethel will be held at 2 p.m. on Thursday, July 20, at Harrison Funeral Chapel with the Rev. Ben Dowling officiating. The family will receive friends one hour before the service at the funeral home.

Arrangements are by Harrison Funeral Home & Crematory. N-G