Latray Wright, a 16 year old junior at Joliet West High School, suddenly and unfortunately passed away on Friday, October 24, 2014. He continues to be loved and admired by his many classmates. On his Facebook account, messages of endearment have been continuously posted. On Twitter, students shared meaningful messages about Wright. He was an athletic, friendly, and humorous 16-year-old who shared countless smiles with those around him. He will be dearly missed by the entire community.

Wright had a passion for basketball that went beyond the court. He proudly displayed his his basketball uniform on his Facebook page for all of his friends to see. Everyone knew that he was a determined player, and his teammates appreciated his perseverance. Terren Ivy described, “Latray was a funny, smart, and hardworking friend of mine. I played on the 9^th grade basketball team with him and had several classes with him.” Similarly, Tremaine Dean explained, “He was a great basketball player. He was also really respectful.” Wright’s former P.E. Leader, senior Kayla Shields, stated, ““He was a really nice kid. He was really athletic. He was always respectful to the [Physical Education] leaders.”

On top of being a profound athlete, Wright had a comical personality. He enjoyed the company of others, loved to make people laugh, and strived to be compassionate. “Latray was very funny and loved to joke around with everyone. He was one of the funniest and most caring people I had ever met,” Kaylah Blakney expressed. Malik Smith added by saying, “Bros. Went to school with him since 6^th grade. Cracked jokes.” Tom Carney reminisced, “Funny kid. Basketball. Everyone was always around Tray when I saw him. [He was the] center of attention and everyone loved being around him. RIP Latray.”

Furthermore, Wright was a caring individual who was constantly curious about the lives of others. Iaya Bacot remembered, “Tray was very funny and always had something to say, whether it was his business or not. He made everyone laugh. All he wanted to do was listen to music, hang out, and play basketball. Tray asked me to help him in school and I did. He wanted to get his grades up for basketball. It’s sad to see him gone so soon. I wish I would’ve gotten a chance to say goodbye. Everyone needs to stop the violence. Tray didn’t deserve to die the way he did. We ♥ you Tray. Rest in Heaven.” Xavier Colon, a teammate of Wright, shared, “He was a good guy with a big heart. Always looked out for his older brother.”

Latray Wright attained many commendable characteristics that serve as a model to others. He positively influenced the lives of people around him every day. His legacy of kindness, humor, and unwavering effort will continue to live on in the hallways of Joliet West High School. Latray Wright will continue to be honored and cherished by all who knew him.

Visitation will be held at Minor-Morris Funeral Home on Monday, November 3, 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. The funeral – 11 a.m. on Tuesday, November 4 at St. John Missionary Baptist.