Chief Justice of the 11th Court of Appeals, Jim R. Wright, retired, passed away on December 23, 2025, in Eastland, Texas, at the age of 79. Jim Wright lived a life of service and leadership marked by a distinguished legal career, faithful ministry, a strong commitment to the community he called home, and a deep love for his family. Funeral services were held December 27, 2025, at First Baptist Church in Eastland under the direction of Edwards Funeral Home.
In 2005, Governor Rick Perry appointed Jim Wright to Chief Justice of the 11th Court of Appeals, a role he held with distinction until he retired in 2017. After his retirement, he continued his service as senior appellate justice, and in 2019 he achieved 40 years of continual judicial service.
Jim Wright also faithfully served as Pastor of First Christian Church in Eastland for 30 years to a congregation that was dear to him.
