Merle L. Wright , 84 years old, of Newport, passed away Sunday, February 1, 2026. He was born December 8, 1941 in Newport to the late Leroy C. and Minnie (Henry) Wright. He was owner of Wright's Welding in New Bloomfield, a 1959 graduate of Perry Joint High School, attended Hope Eternal United Methodist Church, was a member of the Sons of the American Legion Squadron 177,  Hunters Valley Sportsman's Association, Keystone Chapter Pontiac Oakland Club International and lifetime member of the Newport Social Order of Owls and Newport Fire Company.

  Merle was preceded in death by his wife , Betsy Wright  and brother Robert K. Wright. He is survived by his children Douglas M. Wright (Irene Wetzler) of Newport, Lora A Wright (Eric Overly) of Leesburg, OH and  Amy Dressler (Thomas) of Liverpool and grandchildren Kalei Kuehlewind and C. Brendon Osborne.

 Service will be held Friday, February 6 at the David Myers Funeral Home with a viewing from 10 AM until the funeral service at 12 PM. Burial will follow in the Newport Cemetery.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Newport Fire Co. 301 Mulberry St.,Newport, PA 17074