Ricky B. Wright

Ricky B. Wright was born on April 9, 1949, in Bakersfield, California, as the eldest of

seven siblings. From a young age, Ricky assumed a significant role in helping to raise

his brothers and sisters, working alongside his mother and demonstrating an

unwavering commitment to his family.

This sense of duty and compassion extended far beyond his immediate family,

shaping him into the remarkable individual he would later become. He graduated

from South High School in 1967, earning a scholarship to Stanislaus State University.

There, he made history by becoming the institution's first All-American athlete,

receiving top honors in both track and field and basketball.

Before completing his college education, Ricky returned home to care for his mother,

taking a job at a preschool. It was during this time that he discovered his passion for

education, a passion that would shape the trajectory of his life. This pivotal experience

led him to embark on a long and fulfilling career in teaching.

Ricky worked within the Kern High School District in Bakersfield, South, West, and

Ridgeview High Schools. He was a dedicated educator who profoundly impacted the

lives of countless students. Throughout his career, Ricky served as a teacher, counselor,

and assistant principal.

In 1995, Ricky met Maria Wright and, as he remarked to her, “You are going to change

my life.” Their connection blossomed into marriage and eventually they had four

children. In 1997, Ricky relocated his family from Bakersfield to Palm Springs, where he

was appointed principal of Palm Springs High School. Here he led with vision and a

deep commitment to his students. Under his guidance, the school underwent a

transformative cultural shift, earning numerous accolades for its achievements.Ricky’s

family extended beyond his immediate household, as he considered many of his

students as part of his extended family.

He founded an organization called Ricky’s Kids, which provided financial assistance to

numerous high school students, supporting needs ranging from yearbook costs to

prom tickets. His Palm Springs High School family became an integral part of his life,

and he was deeply invested in the success of the educators and administrators around

him. Ricky took great pride in mentoring the next generation of school leaders. His

love for his work was evident, and he could often be found barbecuing for his staff at

every home football game or performing with students in the school choir. His goal

was to bring the staff and their families together as they ate his famous baby back ribs.

Ricky is preceded in death by his parents, Willie Wright Sr. and Ruby Velma Hailey, his younger

brother Rodney Wright Sr., and his younger sister Carla Johnson.

He is survived by his wife, Maria Angeles Wright, and their four children: Ricky Samuel Duran

Wright of Los Angeles, California; Hannah Maria Duran Wright of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;

Maricela Sophia Duran Wright of Palo Alto, California; and Maribel Lynette Duran Wright of

Palm Springs. He is also survived by many cousins, nieces, and nephews, as well as his brothers,

Dwight Wright, Chuck Wright, and his sisters, Janice McFadden and Lynette Porter.

Ricky’s legacy as a dedicated educator, mentor, leader, and family man will forever be

cherished by all who had the privilege of knowing him. His profound impact on education, as

well as the lives of his students, colleagues, and loved ones, will continue to be felt for

generations to come.