December 15, 1952-July 26, 2026
Ada C. “Tina” Wright, passed from this world Sunday, July 26th, 2026 after a courageous and determined battle with cancer. Tina, age 73, was born in Dayton, Ohio. It was there that she developed a lifelong love of art, music, and nature. She would reminisce of early life in Ohio as part of a large and loving Catholic family, one of 7 children. Growing up, Tina was often praised for her creativity and wide range of talents. A gifted musician, she played the guitar and piano with ease. Tina had also gained a reputation as an exceptional artist at Fairmont West H.S., and after receiving the prestigious Hallmark Award of Excellence, her work was added to their permanent collection. She then attended the Kansas City Art Institute and completed her Bachelor of Fine Arts, Sculpture degree (’75).
After college, she started her own family and surrounded her children with art, music, laughter and love. Along this journey, she always kept her faith in God and lived a life of kindness and compassion. Ever curious, Tina never stopped learning. In 1992 she received her Master of Science in Education degree, from Bank Street College of Education and Parsons School of Design in NYC. An integral member of countless boards, committees and organizations; she promoted the value of education and artistic expression to all of her colleagues, students and children.
After a long and successful career in higher education and the arts, she could have easily retired. But never one to rest on her laurels, Tina reinvented herself once again. This time answering her non-secular calling to help others. At the age of 62 she earned her certification as a CNA and CMA. She provided gentle care for the elderly, specializing in memory care. She treated each patient as a friend and shared her love of art therapy with them. Tina was someone you never forgot. She approached every day as a gift from God, and met strangers with the same compassion and respect that she would a best friend. Her incredible talents, beauty, humor, and strength left an unforgettable impact on everyone who ever knew her. She will be missed dearly by all.
Tina was preceded in death by her parents, Robert and Josephine, and her sister, Mary Jo. She is survived by her dearest and closest friend, Janet; her children, John (Dawn), Nick (Cydney), and Mary (John); her grandchildren, James, Sarah, Josie, Sofia, and Valerie; her step-grandchildren, Tori, Lizzie, and Molly; her 8 step-great-grandchildren; and her siblings, William (Sure), Myra (Jimmy), Bob (Liz), John (Kathy), and Joe (Jennifer). A memorial service will be held at Indian Heights United Methodist Church in Overland Park, KS, with the date to be announced.
Listening
As I dream of peaceful days
Gentle sounds and restful breaths
A voice calls out, I wonder whose;
It is our Lord and God.
His tender heart (a calming sea)
Has warmed my soul
And banished cold,
His love a sweet caress.
When I dream of peaceful days
Gentle sounds and restful breaths
I listen softly to His words
As I grow in Spirit.
Ada Wright, May 3, 2026
