Michael John Wright, of Chicago, Illinois, passed away on June 22, 2026, at the age of 72. A lifelong Chicagoan, Michael spent his life surrounded by family and the familiar places he called home.

Michael attended Wadsworth elementary school. He was born with cerebral palsy. A condition that made it difficult for him to walk. Therefore, he wore leg braces until he was 4 years old. The children accepted him even though he walked different and fell down. Michael would never stay down and would always get back up. His grandmother became his legal guardian at 3 years old. His grandmother would remove those braces every night and exercise his legs so he was able to start walking at 2 years old. As a young adolescent, he was a member of two churches and never missed Sunday School and/or Bible study. Michael attend DuSable High School and upon graduating went to Gallaudet University for the hearing impaired in Washington, D.C. 

Michael was preceded in death by his partner of more than 36 years, Sherry Waller, who passed away in 2024. Michael was preceded in death by his mother Irene Brown, his grandparents Thomas and Willie May Wright. Michael was also preceded in death by his two brothers Louis and Carl Brown, along with his two aunts Nancy Coats and Jeanette Smith. His six uncles Herman, Ralph, Thomas Jr, John, Donald and Joseph Wright.

He was the father of Lillie (Daniel) Behrens and Michael Wright, and grandfather to Eddie Collier and Harmony Bell. He is also survived by his two aunts Frances Annette Acklin, and Velma Berry.   He is survived by his eight brothers Joseph Brown, Columbus Brown, Pastor Terrence Brown, Jerry Brown, Pastor Danielle Brown, Marvin (Karen) Brown, and Thomas Brown. He is survived by his three sisters Linda Benson, JoAnne (Darien) Woodford, and Melissa Strong.

Michael enjoyed cooking and was especially known for his smoked ham chops with beans and rice. He was a good father—fair, quiet by nature, and known to joke with those closest to him. He also never turned down a Coca-Cola.

Michael will be remembered for his steady presence, sense of humor, and the many everyday moments shared with those who loved him.

Arrangements entrusted to Chicagoland Cremation Options of Schiller Park, IL