Anna Martin Wright

Anna Irene Martin Wright passed away in Amarillo, Texas, on Wednesday, May 28, 2025. A celebration of Anna’s life will be held at 11:00 AM on Friday, June 27, 2025, at the First Christian Church (2011 4th Avenue, Canyon, Texas).

Anna was born on November 1, 1934, in Lordsburg, New Mexico, to Robert Carol Martin, a rancher, banker, and politician and Ione (Rose) Martin, a homemaker and cowboy.  Anna came from a family that made significant contributions to the pioneering history of Arizona, New Mexico, and Texas.

Anna was a graduate of Lordsburg High School.  After high school, she attended New Mexico College of Agriculture and Mechanic Arts, where she earned her Bachelor of Arts in Education and Master of Arts in History. During her time at college, she was a member of the Delta Zeta Sorority, participated in the Interreligious Council, and was involved with the Women’s Residence Hall Council.  In 1952, she served as a Sun Carnival Princess representing Lordsburg during the Southwestern El Paso Sun Carnival.

On June 9, 1955, Anna married Robert Anderson Wright in Lordsburg.  They had 4 children: Stacie, Kellie, Robin, and Clifford.  The couple divorced in June 1974.

Anna was a lifelong learner and educator.  As a teacher, she garnered many awards.  She taught 6th grade at Lawndale Elementary and later at Bowie Junior High.  She had a passion for reading and enjoyed sharing her love of books with her children, grandchildren, and students.  Among her favorite books were “The Cay,” “Hank the Cowdog,” “Captain Underpants,” “I Married Adventure,” the “Tarzan” series, and “The Wizard of Oz.”   Her passion for teaching was recognized by her many students.  She inspired and instilled in them her love of learning.   One of her students sent Anna a letter:  he wrote, in part, “I will dedicate my first book to you and give you an autographed copy.  You inspired me more than anyone I know, and I can’t think of anyone better suited.”

Throughout her childhood, Anna was an active member of the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls, where she achieved the highest office of Worthy Advisor.  Later, she was a member of the Order of the Eastern Star and served as Worthy Matron on multiple occasions.  Both organizations held a special place in her heart.

Anna proudly served as a director of Western Bank in Lordsburg, New Mexico, from 1994-2010.

Throughout her life, Anna was deeply committed to her faith.  Shortly after moving to Canyon in 1964, she joined The First Christian Church (Disciples of Christ).  She remained actively involved with her church until her death.

Anna was preceded in death by her parents.

She is survived by her children, Stacie de Lespine McGill (John Harris McGill (deceased)) of Austin, Texas; Kellie Ione Curtin (Michael Francis Curtin IV) of Skagway, Alaska; Robin Elizabeth Clark of Amarillo, Texas, and Clifford Martin Wright (Alison Adair Young) of Austin, Texas; grandchildren, Christopher Martin Purkeypile, Joshua Nathaniel Bunten McGill (Michelle McGill), EvaClaire Katherine Wright, Scarlett Pope Wright, and Charlie Quentin Clark; and great-granddaughter Madeleine Ava ‘Maddie’ McGill; her brother Robert C. Martin, Jr. (Marie Martin); nephew Michael Martin (Lynda Martin), nieces Sue Braune (David Braune), and Sarah Smith (Marc Smith); and numerous other family and friends.  Among those mourning her passing is her cherished friend, Consuelo Carreon, whose friendship was a constant source of happiness and support.

Anna will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made in Anna’s honor to an organization of your choice.