Kathryn Louise Lantz Wright

MESA - Kathryn Louise Lantz Wright, 83, died on Jan. 24, 2020.

Ms. Wright was born on Nov. 23, 1936, in Tuttle, Oklahoma, to Karl and Ruby Lantz. She accepted Christ at an early age. She loved watching and cheering on the Phoenix Suns and the Arizona Diamondbacks. She enjoyed most of all playing card games, video games (Tetris), casino trips, making handmade quilts and motorcycle rides. She worked for many years at Yellow Front and Checker Auto and later at Valley National Bank/Chase Bank and First Community Bank. She retired at age 65 in 2001 from the bank, where she loved working the drive-thru window. She was quick to give away sweet suckers or treats along with a smile.

She was a very strong, independent woman with a sense of humor. She lovingly teased with the certified nursing assistant even when she was clearly struggling and hurting. She taught everyone the Golden Rule. She talked her new friend and caregiver into taking her to a casino, and she enjoyed playing card games with all as well. Her favorite song was by Brad Paisley, "When I get where I’m going."

Survivors include seven sons and daughters, Earl and Gary Chitwood of Payson, Karla Chitwood-Bush of Queen Creek, Sandi Chitwood-Spoon of Casa Grande, Allen Wright of Mesa, Margaret Wright-Mejia of Mesa and Dale Chitwood of Wichita Falls, Texas; three brothers, Jerry, David and Gerry Lantz of Coolidge; 17 grandchildren; and 20 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by John C. Chitwood, Buck Wright, Karl Lantz Jr., Buster and Rosie Lantz, Robert and Sue Rucker, Glenn and Carolyn Clubb.

Donations may be made to: COPD Research Foundation, 3300 Ponce de Leon Blvd., Miami, FL 33134, copdfoundation.org/donate or 866-731-2673.

J. Warren Funeral Services in charge of arrangements.