PORTLAND – Stephen Bradley Wright, 59, successful business man, family man, song writer and musician, passed away Tuesday, Aug. 30, 2011, after a brave battle with cancer. He was born in Athol, Mass.
Along with his wife, Renee, he was co-owner of Steve and Renee’s Diner, Washington Avenue, Portland. Through his business he and his wife were yearly contributors to the Toys for Tots foundation. Stephen was passionate about his family, his music, crossword puzzles and “driving Miss Duddy.” As a founding member of the band The Flannel Brothers and percussionist/background singer for the band Downwind of the Outhouse, he wrote and co-wrote a myriad of songs that will live on as a legacy to his talent and sense of humor. He is credited with being “the backbone of the band.” Stephen grew up in Bangor and was a 1970 graduate of John Bapst Memorial High School.
He was predeceased by his father, Dr. James Wright; and his mother, Virginia (Carr) Wright. He is survived by his wife of 35 years, Renee Wright; brothers, James and wife, Nancy, and Brian and wife, Jeanne; daughter, Laurie Daniels and husband, Dennis; grandson, Eban; aunts, Connie and Helen; numerous nieces, nephews and cousins. Family members thank all those from Massachusetts General and Maine Medical Center involved with his care, with special thanks to Dr. Ebrahim and his team for their compassion and guidance. Much love and thanks to Stephen’s extended family and friends for their prayers and support.
Visiting hours will be 5-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 5, at Independent Death Care of Maine, 660 Brighton Ave., Portland. Stephen’s memorial Mass will be celebrated 10 a.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, at Latin Mass at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, 307 Congress St., Portland, where he faithfully attended. Stephen’s last wish was for friends and relatives to do a random act of kindness for a stranger in his memory. In lieu of flowers, please donate gently used or new articles of clothing to St. Vincent D’Paul’s Soup Kitchen, Cumberland Avenue, Portland, but according to him, no used underwear. To offer words of condolence for the family, please go to
www.independentdeathcare.com.