James Gordon "Jim" Wright

James Gordon "Jim" Wright, JD, passed away peacefully at home on February 14, 2025, in Davis, California.

Born in 1947 to Gordon and Anne, Jim's love of nature developed early while adventuring in the Oakland hills. Jim earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in political science from the University of California, Davis, in 1968. He then attended the UC Davis King Hall School of Law, graduating in 1971. Following law school, he served as a VISTA volunteer lawyer in Philadelphia before returning to Yolo County, where he worked as a deputy public defender for several years. Later, he joined the staff of the Sacramento County Counsel, where he took on various roles, including representing dependent children. He eventually transitioned to working in civil law for Sacramento County before retiring. Even in retirement, Jim remained dedicated to public service, volunteering with Legal Services of Northern California (legal aid) and the STEAC Food Pantry.

A longtime resident of Davis, Jim had a deep interest in spirituality and was devoted to the teachings of Christian Science and its branch church in Davis. He was a fixture in the church and other community spaces such as classical music concerts, farmer's markets, and the local chocolatier. Jim was known to many as an active listener, dedicated father, analytical thinker, creative home cook, and playful wordsmith. Ever balanced, he engaged in ongoing personal development and also making his "inner 8-year-old" happy in times of leisure. Jim enjoyed tinkering with computers, discussing social justice issues, being routine-oriented, and sharing cheesy "Dad jokes", and instilled these in his sons. Music and nature brought him great joy, and he found fulfillment singing with the Davis Comic Opera and leading an adult hiking group with DiscoveryBound. Jim had a long-time friend and Friday dinner companion, Rene, whose brotherhood was grounded in a shared sense of humanity and justice, alongside their conversations about careers and mutual interest in art.

Jim is preceded in death by his sister, Margaret (2013), and survived by his two sons, Matthew (Sarah) and Gavin, their mother Morgan, his brother David (Sharon), and a large extended family.

A celebration of Jim’s life is planned for Saturday, March 22nd in Davis. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to Sierra Club of California. May his memory bring comfort to those who knew him.