Mr. Dion E. Wright, known lovingly to many simply as Dion, passed from this life on May 9, 2026, in Mattoon, Illinois, at the age of 65, following a courageous battle with bone cancer. Dion was born May 20, 1960, in Lawrenceville, Illinois, to Donald K. and Patricia J. (Rich) Wight, both of whom preceded him in death. He lived a life marked by quiet strength, deep faith, and a steadfast devotion to serving others.
Dion was a Christian man whose life reflected the values he held most dear. He was faith-filled, selfless, and optimistic, and those qualities were evident in the way he treated his family, his church, his coworkers, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He believed in the goodness of God, the power of prayer, and the importance of living with purpose and compassion. His life was a testimony to the words of Scripture, and he sought to honor the Lord in both word and deed. “For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that everyone may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.” II COR. 5:10
Dion graduated from Robinson High School in 1978 and later attended Lincoln Trail College in 1980. He carried the discipline and work ethic he learned through those years into his long career as a maintenance technician and custodian with Community Unit #2 School District, where he served faithfully for 26 years. He was respected for his dependable nature, his willingness to help, and the dignity with which he carried out even the most humble tasks. He understood that every act of service matters when done with a sincere heart.
In 2008, Dion answered a higher calling when he was ordained as a minister. That same year, he founded the Ark of The Covenant Church, a place where he could share the gospel and encourage others in their walk with Christ. His ministry reflected his deep desire to serve the Lord and uplift those around him. He also added the Ark of The Covenant Soup Kitchen, extending his church’s compassion beyond the church walls to feed the less fortunate. Through this work, Dion demonstrated the love of Christ in a practical and powerful way, reaching out to those in need with kindness and humility.
Dion’s life was richly blessed by his family, whom he loved dearly. He is survived by his daughters, Alisha Jo Stephens and Marsha A. Bahr; his sister, Tammy Wright; his grandchildren, Jailyn Stephens, Sydnee Stephens, Laura Bahr, and Sadie Bahr; his nephews,
Elias Wright and Josiah Wright; and many cousins in the Wright and Rich families. He cherished his family and found joy in their lives, their accomplishments, and the bonds they shared. His presence was a source of encouragement, and his memory will remain a treasured part of their lives.
Those who knew Dion will remember his gentle spirit, his steady faith, and his hopeful outlook. Even in times of personal hardship and devastating health issues, he remained optimistic and anchored in the promises of God. He faced life with courage and grace, trusting in the Lord’s plan and encouraging others to do the same. His example reminded others that a life of service, prayer, and love can leave a lasting mark on the hearts of many.
Besides his parents, Dion was preceded by his wife, Monica L. (Mikeworth) Wright.
The Bible offers comfort in times of loss, and Dion’s life brought to mind the words of Jesus in John 14:2, “In my Father’s house are many mansions.” This promise of eternal hope speaks to the Christian faith that Dion cherished throughout his life. He lived believing in that hope, and those who mourn his passing may take comfort in the assurance that “Death is swallowed up in Victory” for those who trust in the Lord.
Dion E. Wright will be remembered with love and gratitude for the life he lived and the faith he shared. His earthly journey has ended, but the legacy of his devotion, service, and compassion remains. He touched many lives through his work, his ministry, and his example, and his memory will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know him. May he rest in the peace of Christ, and may his loved ones find comfort in the hope of eternal life.
A graveside funeral service will be conducted at 3:00 pm Thursday May 14, 2026, at the Tohill Cemetery, rural Flat Rock, IL with Pastors Rick & Ruth Ramey officiating.
The family suggests memorial donations to the Willow Breeze Hospice House, 10660 Co. Rd. 800 N., Mattoon, IL 61938-3475
Comments