Socorro Wright

Socorro (Ortega) Wright, 59, of Burlington, Wash., passed away Feb. 12, 2024, after a yearlong illness. 

Socorro is survived by Greg Wright, her husband of 34 years, daughter Libby (Wright) Michel, son-in-law Adam Michel and grandson Miller Michel, also of Burlington, Wash. Socorro is also survived by her mother Miguela Ortega, sisters Mechelle, Pearl, Sydney, and Precilia, and brothers Luis (Junior) and Jaime. 

She was preceded in death by her father, Luis Ortega. 

Socorro was born in Moses Lake, Wash., and grew up in Royal City, Wash. She received an associate of arts degree from Big Bend Community College and a bachelor's degree from Central Washington University in Psychology. 

Socorro was an avid softball player, along with the rest of her family, who were known in the area for their skill at the sport. She played on countless teams over the years, including for Chico Pizza's softball team, where she gained many lifelong friends. Socorro continued to play softball and volleyball for many years of her adult life and was sought after for first base playing talent.

Socorro met Greg and they married in 1990, eventually moving to Wenatchee to raise their daughter Libby. Trips to Glacier National Park, Disneyland, Guemes Island and any quality family time were things Socorro enjoyed immensely. 

Her desire and commitment to work with individuals with disabilities was the highlight of her career with 30 years of service with the State of Washington — Developmental Disability Administration. She was a supervisor and always spoke fondly of those she got to work with, making many coworker friends along the way.

Greg and Socorro moved to Burlington in 2022 to be closer to Libby and Adam, with plans to retire in the area.

Socorro will be remembered for so many things including her love of dogs, her love of Disneyland, her love of watching the Mariners (or any baseball game) and Seahawks, and her love for her family. She was the best wife, mom, grandma, sister and aunt, and she especially enjoyed time with her grandson. 

Socorro made everyone she knew feel special and loved. Her smile, sense of humor and kindness towards others made everyone want to be her friend.

The family would like to thank everyone who reached out or came to visit Socorro during this last year including family, friends, and DDA coworkers. It is obvious how much she touched others and how missed she will be.

A celebration of life is being planned for May of this year, around what would have been Socorro's 60th birthday. Details to follow. In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made in Socorro's name to the Alternative Humane Society in Bellingham, Wash., where Socorro rescued her loyal dog Pippi. 

To share memories of Socorro, please visit www.evanschapel.com/obituary/socorro-wright