On Monday, January 4, 2022, Dolores Enola Gardner Wright passed away after a short hospitalization. Just as she lived her life, she passed on her own terms. She fought like the warrior; she was. Dolores never lost faith and kept her dignity. Always believing in God’s goodness and grace, she wanted to go home. God chose his heavenly home for her.

Dolores Enola Gardner Wright was born to 2 loving parents, Verlean Johnson and Robert Gardner. She was blessed with an older sister, Amelia S. Bateman-DeMar. All are now deceased.

Dolores came from a large family. Eventually most of her family migrated to Los Angeles. The family were all talented singers. Dolores sang in the youth choir at Victory Baptist Church, where her mom was the choir director. She was bitten by the signing bug.

She graduated from John C Fremont High School in Los Angeles. Upon graduation in 1957, she worked several manufactory and assembly jobs. In her 30s, she became a Beautician and could be seen going door to door, with her red fake crocodile bag filled with her products. Of course, she was her usual stylish self.

She loved to party, dance, and sing among family, friends, even strangers. Her favorite songs were Johnny Mathias’ “Misty”, Dinah Washinton’s “What A Difference A Day Makes” and Nancy Wilson’s “Guess Who I Saw”.

She leaves behind a legacy her family may never see again. Family includes 3 nieces, Linda Burton, Debra DeMar Quarles(Michael) and Beverly DeMar-Brown (Jerry). Favorite cousins, Karen and Brenda Charles, Shone “Sika”, Aaron and Shannon Harris. 6 great nieces, 2 great nephews and 18 great-great nieces and nephews. A slew of other family, friends, love ones and associates.

A special blessing to Elliott Sanders, our cousin who supported, loved and cared for her. You were a Godsend to her extended family and you will never be alone.