Wednesday, October 21, 2026 | St. Lawrence County, NY
LISBON - A private graveside service for Elizabeth “Liz” D. Wright, age 88, of Lisbon, will be held at the Ogdensburgh Cemetery, with Rev. Laurena Will officiating. Liz passed away early Friday morning, October 16, 2026, at Claxton Hepburn Medical Center, surrounded by her loving family.
Liz is survived by her children, Sara Wright of Rensselaer Falls, Ruth (Chris) Sweeney of Reading, MA, James (Marianne) Wright of Buffalo; her grandchildren, Lauren Wright and Ben Wright of Buffalo, and Dr. Katharine Sweeney and her husband, Tavish Pegram, of Connecticut; a great-grandson, Christopher Mars; her brother, William (Louise) Dillingham of St. Joseph, MI; and her sister, Sara (Wayne) Gugel of South Carolina, along with several nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Born on March 17, 1938, in Ogdensburg, Liz was the daughter of the late James and Katharine (Wheaton) Dillingham. She graduated from Ogdensburg Free Academy and continued her education at Wells College, where she earned a bachelor’s degree. She later married the love of her life, Ralph R. Wright, who predeceased her on January 11, 2007.
Liz worked as a medical technologist, serving as the head of the bacteriology department at A. Barton Hepburn Hospital for many years, retiring in 2018. While she devoted much of her professional life to caring for others, her heart belonged to her family and her horses.
A passionate horse enthusiast and a familiar face in the show ring, Liz shared a lifelong love of horses with her beloved husband, Ralph. Together, they built a life centered around traveling to horse shows, competing in arenas, and celebrating their many accomplishments.
Liz took great pride in the awards they brought home and cherished the friendships and memories made along the way. She was an active member of the St. Lawrence Valley Horsemen’s Association and the Empire State Arabian Horsemen’s Association, organizations that reflected her deep commitment to the equestrian community.
Beyond the show ring, Liz enjoyed playing bridge, cheering on her beloved Buffalo Bills, and, most of all, spending time with her family. Whether sharing her love of horses or enjoying the company of those closest to her, Liz brought enthusiasm and dedication to what mattered most: her love for her family, her horses, and the equestrian community.
Memorial contributions may be made to Hospice of St. Lawrence Valley, US Highway 11, Potsdam, NY 13676.
Condolences and fond memories may be shared online at www.foxandmurrayfuneralhome.com.
