1974
2014
Arika Wright Carden, of Newton, went home to be with her Maker on Sunday, January 12th after a short bout with the flu. Arika was born in Augsburg, Germany on August 3rd, 1974 and was a graduate of Newton Conover High School and Western Carolina University. She was employed by Engineered Controls for 15 years. Arika will be remembered as a loving mother, daughter, sister, and friend. She was always a free spirit and life of the party, and was always willing to help those in need. She was a committed family woman and your typical "sporting Mom" always in attendance and cheering loudly at her sons sporting events.
Arika is survived by her Parents Mike and Sally Wright of Newton. Her pride and joy: two sons, Justin Aiken and Chance Carden of Newton; brother, Jamie Wright and wife, Cynthia from Greenville, SC; husband, Josh Carden of Newton; Uncle Wayne Wright of Newton; Aunts, Mickey Parks of Hickory and Patty Shuford of Newton; and Uncle Clifford Parks of Chapel Hill.
Funeral will be held at 6:00 p.m., on Wednesday, January 15, 2014 with a viewing afterwards at Christ United Methodist Church, Mountain View location, Hickory, NC.
Memorials can be made to State Employees' Credit Union, PO Box 3049, Hickory, NC 28603, to Justin Aiken and Chance Carden Educational Fund.
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
February 12, 2014
Alicia Sumpter
I love you, Arika, and always will. I miss you and think about you every day. Your smile, your laughter, your funny jokes, and just knowing no matter what - we loved each other and were there to talk if needed. We have remained forever friends - even when we meet again. -- I feel for Justin and Chance. You were a wonderful mother and made those kids your heart and soul. I know they will miss you, like everyone that knew you. But I know you will be watching over them and helping shape them into the men they're meant to be. Boys, I hope you listen to that inner voice as you go through life; I truly believe that'll be your mama talking to you- loving you and guiding you. I know you will make her proud. And know, that I love you guys too and will always be on your side and care what happens in your life.
January 17, 2014
Ashley Tate
I hope and pray that you know how much I really loved you and will until we meet again. You are and have always been one of the strongest persons that I have ever known. I am at peace knowing that you are now flying high with the angels and taking good care of all the children there. Your service spoke for itself not only in number but the abundance of love that was in that one room for the moment.
Know and believe that your children will be taken care of and how fortunate we are for this. Their daddies were there with you and will continue to be with your children.
I love you Arika Wright Carden and neither time nor distance will alter that. Ashley will see you on the other side and until then rest in peace my friend, rest in peace.......
Love Always,
Ashley and Colten
January 16, 2014
Alisha Aiken-Galvez
I went to school with Arika. I am sorry to hear of the loss to your family ! She was a sweet girl and will be missed by many! I pray that God comforts all of you during this hard time!
January 16, 2014
Sandy Hartsell
Many condolences to Arika's family. She had a uplifting personality and will truly be missed. Sending many prayers!
January 16, 2014
with love and sympathy
richard and mary smith
January 16, 2014
Julie Harkins
Arika was truly one of a kind...my sister and her were so close growing up and considered part of our family. When I moved back to Conover we got a chance to connect again and the strength and fortitude she had blew me away! Her smile and her strength is what I will remember. Also her extreme love for all of her kids....RIP girlie
January 15, 2014
Tammy Murray
My sincere condolences to Arika's kids, family & friends! So sorry for your loss. You are in my prayers during this difficult time!
January 15, 2014
David Guynn
It's so hard to believe that our friend Arika is no longer with us. She will truly be missed by all who knew her. To know her was to love her. I hadn't seen her for many years, but I always enjoyed keeping up with her through Facebook. I pray that the Lord would keep his hand upon her family and friends and comfort those who are hurting during this most difficult time. John 14:1-4 “Let not your hearts be troubled. Believe in God; believe also in me. In my Father's house are many rooms. If it were not so, would I have told you that I go to prepare a place for you? And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again and will take you to myself, that where I am you may be also. And you know the way to where I am going.”
January 15, 2014
Lori (Deal) Goans
I still can't believe I will be attending Arika's funeral today. She had just messaged me not too long ago and we joked about how we wanted to hang out soon and have another one of our "fun nights" out but we were getting old and could barely stay up past 9:00 on a Saturday night anymore, compared to how we used to "live it up" all the time...that was Arika, always making me laugh! I just regret so much, that I didn't take her up sooner on that offer. I thought for sure, she and I would have much more free time on our hands this summer and I could hang out with her then, by the pool. I now truly understand how precious life is and how we just never know when it's our time. This will teach me to kiss my kids every morning when they go off to school no matter how late we may be running behind. I just have such a heavy heart right now for all of Arika's family and friends but especially for Sally, Mike, Jamie and most of all Justin and Chance....they were truly Arika's life! I will continue to pray for everyone to get through this tremendously difficult time and I will always hold Arika in my heart and treasure our memories together. Love you always, Arika!!
January 15, 2014
Cheri & Bruce Dudley
We are friends of Sally Wright
through Christ Church and
want to let you know that we are continuing to lift up all of Arika's
family and friends in prayers.
January 15, 2014
Laura Spencer Hall
Gone too soon! Prayers to her family and friends during this difficult time. Arika was such a beautiful person with a beautiful soul.
January 15, 2014
Tracy Garavaglia
In loving memory.
January 15, 2014
Christy Kunes
Rest in Peace my Catamount buddy. I will never forget your smile.
January 15, 2014
Stacy Carden
In loving memory of a wonderful person. We will love you and miss you always.
January 15, 2014
Karen Bechtold
Can't believe that today is the day that we stop and remember a legacy left behind amongst Arika's family and friends. Thank you Arika for the many laughs and tears over the years. Some of the very best times of my life were spent with our group of friends at Western Carolina. You were an amazing mother and friend. Knowing you were a child of our savior brings peace as have the assurance of being reunited with you again one day. Until that time, may you fly among the angels and watch over all of us left behind here on earth. I love you Arika.
January 14, 2014
Gary, Terrie & Jason Tallant
We are sadden to hear of your loss. We will always remember Arika with a smile on her face and loving her boys.
January 14, 2014
Patricia and Derrick White and Family
We are so sorry for your loss. We will miss seeing Arika at the ballpark! We will keep the family in our prayers!
January 14, 2014
Amanda Stoy
January 14, 2014
Julie Dixon Carroll
My sweet friend..what a legacy you have left for us girls to continue. Your sense of humor will be big shoes for us to fill, your never ceasing smile will never leave our thoughts and your desire to always have everyone happy are just a few of your many traits that will bless our hearts forever. I thank God for the many years we shared as friends and I pray to God to continue watching over your boys and leading them down the path you started them on. Love, miss and never forgotten.....
January 14, 2014
Tim & Penny Peeler
We are so sorry to hear of your tragic loss. We did not have the pleasure of knowing Arika but we know the Parks family and want to extend our deepest sympathy to you all.
January 14, 2014
Anne Edwards
Josh and family so sorry for your loss. Praying for confront and peace. Arika was a good neighbor and friend when we lived there. Always was a good listener. She is going to be so missed.
January 14, 2014
Estrella Vallecillos
So sorry for the loss of our good friend Arika. I will surely miss her smile. Our prayers are with the family and everyone involved.
January 14, 2014
WITH LOVE AND SYMPATHY RICHARD AND MARY SMITH
January 14, 2014
Erin/Justin Horton/Leatherman
Our thoughts are with the family during this difficult time! Arika was one of a kind ! We will always remember her and hold her in our hearts!
January 14, 2014
Richard & Dianne Davis
Josh and family, our thoughts and prayers are with you all. Our whole family will continue to have you in our prayers. Please know we love you.
January 14, 2014
Ron & Meka Addison
So sorry for your loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you all. No loss is ever easy especially sudden, but lean on each other as much as you can for strength. In time may God give you all peace. Love you all.
January 14, 2014
GHS YMCA Child watch
Our prayers are with your family at this time of bereavement, may God continue to keep you in perfect peace.
January 14, 2014
Stephanie Young
I was so shocked to see this! It is truly unbelievable! I am so sorry for all of you Sally, Mike, Justin, Chance, Josh and everyone else who loved her and was loved by her! I have no words to express the pain I feel in my heart for each of you. Arika was always so good to me and Andy and Brandon and for that I will always be grateful! Although I haven't seen her in a few years I have always considered her my friend. Such a huge loss for the world and those who knew her! I wish there were something I could say or do to help you all but unfortunately all I can say is I'm sorry and I'm praying for you all to find some sort of peace and understanding in this difficult time! Love you all!!
January 14, 2014
Nedrea Richards
So very sorry for the loss of your beautiful young daughter, sister, mother, and friend. May you all be blessed with tender mercies.
January 14, 2014
Holly Butts
I have known Arika for a long time..I have grown to know her better because I have cut her hair for several years....she always was making a joke and giving me a good laugh..she had so much love for her boys and always talking about the ballgames...Just remember Chance and Justin your Mom will still b there cheering u on!..she is definitely going to b remembered...so sorry for the loss of her...your family is in my family's thoughts and prayers..Love you Arika and I will miss you!
January 14, 2014
Scott Huss
I am so sorry to hear of the passing of Arika. The Huss family will keep her and the rest of the family in our prayers.
January 14, 2014
Melissa Herman
Arika, It's too much to believe that you are gone. I will never forget the times we shared. So much fun in high school, college and after. I spent the best times of my life with you. Our group has remained for almost 20 years. I am so thankful for your friendship. You were one of a kind. A heart as big as I've ever seen. You always loved unconditionally. I don't know what life will be like without your big personality, your funny pictures and crazy Facebook posts. It just doesn't seem like you can be gone. I prayed so hard for God to heal you and He answered that prayer...just in His way...not mine. You are with the angels, right where you should be. I will miss you forever. We will carry on your spirit. I love you. Melissa
January 14, 2014
So sorry for your loss. Know that our thoughts and prays are with your family. The Reece family.
January 14, 2014
Mandy Hicks
To be absent from the body is to be present with the Lord.
Family, friends and loved ones I pray God's comfort and peace upon all. I will never forget the good times and memories we all made while at Western Carolina and after we graduated. Your personality made everyone smile!! Justin and Chance are your legacy! I know that they will continue to make you proud as you watch down upon them from heaven. Thank you for what you meant to me and to others. Thank God for your faith. I know we shall meet again my friend. Until then......
January 14, 2014
Kristen Shook
I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. May God be with you in this tough time. Prayers to your family.
January 14, 2014
Cindi Hall
That old classical gospel song "I'll Fly Away" comes to mind. Arika, you flew through your life right into the Arms of Glory! You will be missed!
January 14, 2014
I am deeply saddened to hear of Arika passing. My heart goes out to her family during this difficult time. - Nicole Simoes
January 14, 2014
Vickie Watson
January 14, 2014
Eric McCoy
Arika was a great friend and will always have a special place in my heart. God bless the family and friends in this time a loss.
Psalm 147:3 "He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds."
January 14, 2014
Sean,Shea and Viktor Cunningham
The amazing things you will do in heaven will be immeasurable! Your physical spirit will be missed here but now you will be there for everyone. RIP sweet girl.
January 14, 2014
Tonya Self-Whisnant
I knew Arika when Justin was in the before and afterschool program that I was a director of at Lyle Creek. She was a fantastic mother and so sweet. May God Bless her boys and guide them over the years as they continue their lives without her as their rock.
January 14, 2014
Sean, Shea and Viktor Cunningham
The good works you will do as God's angel will be immeasurable. You always had a smile on your face and a kind word for anyone. Your physical spirit will be missed but now your spirit and touch all. God bless and love you and all those you have touched.
January 14, 2014
Wendy Smith
My condolences for your loss. I didn't know Arika personally but I know she was dear to so many. Praying for her two lovely boys - your mother will always watch over you. God Bless you all.
January 14, 2014
Sharon Hartsoe
I am so sorry for your loss. I will keep you all in my prayers and will pray God will give you strength and will wrap his arms around you all. I remember when she was a little girl in school at Shuford and she was a very sweet girl. Sally was my children's babysitter almost 30 years ago. My son Robert spent more time at Sally's than my daughter Lydia and he still talks about his memories of being at Sally's house. My God hold you in the palm of his hand. (My last name used to be Vega.)
January 13, 2014
Josh Stoner
Very saddened to hear about this. I remember Arika always smiling... she was such a sweetheart. Praying for the family.
January 13, 2014
Candice Arney
I am sorry to hear about Arika, to her children and family, you are in my thoughts and prayers, may her joy live on through each one of you, may God bless you and be with you during this time.
January 13, 2014
Holly Martin
Fly High and Keep Shining Bright!! May each of us cherish our own memories and experiences/adventures with Arika!! Mike, Sally, Jamie, Justin, Chance, & her BFFs from high school ... may her smile shine brightly in your hearts forever and I pray you find peace and comfort in your own time!!
January 13, 2014
David Knight
I'm so sorry for the lost of your daughter,your mother,and your wife! Wow I'm so sorry guys to hear about ya'lls lost love one! prayers for all of the family!
January 13, 2014
Susan Carroll-Yoder
Praying for the families' strength for endurance. Love to all!!
January 13, 2014
joya cloninger
No one really ever dies unless they are forgotten. I will never forget you Arika with an A. I will remember you and the memories of us becoming close at a time in my life when i least expected it.I think your tremendous giving spirit was what i needed,and your willingness to look past what was and reconize the now.thats unconditional love and you arika gave that love to me.i have so much to say to you but another time. I know you wont miss any of us so ill take comfort in that.The world lost out on this one,you r so needed and you had so much to do. i will always remember you and speak of you. Jesus says ill see you again someday. ill take comfort in that as well. I hope your family can lean on Jesus now he will wipe away all their tears.......until we meet again chicka!
January 13, 2014
Robyn and Lyn Christie
Our thoughts and prayers are with you Sally, Mike, Jamie, and to all Arika's family and friends. Justin and Chance, we are deeply sadden and so sorry for your loss, for you will always have your mother's smile, spirit, and heart. Always in our hearts Ms. Arika, now and forever. Robyn and Lyn Christie, Loganville, GA
January 13, 2014
Kenny and I are so sorry for your loss. We knew Arika as a teenager, because she was friends with Melissa. She was a very sweet girl. We are continuing to keep you and her boys in our thoughts and prayers. May God grant you comfort and peace. Linda and Kenny Bolick
January 13, 2014
Misley Mullen
You will be missed..May the Lord comfort your family.
January 13, 2014
Kristie Klingenberg
This world is a better place because you were in it. You were more like a sister than just a friend, ans I am having a hard time imagining life without you. You were the most giving person and I. am proud to call you a friend! Your cup was never half empty but always half full. Your boys are like my own and my boys will miss you dearly. Your smile I will never forget and I will always keep you in my heart. I will cheer twice as hard at games as I will have to cheer for us both. God has a special Angel ! Your boys will make you proud!
January 13, 2014
Rita Jarrett Neill
So sorry to hear about Arika's death. Praying for the families.
January 13, 2014
Todd, Carla, Matt, Mia, and Ross Fowler
Your family is in our thoughts and prayers. We will always remember Arika as a wonderful mother and champion of her boys. Her smile and ready laughter will be missed.
January 13, 2014
Meredith Bromley
My prayers are with the family. I hope you each find strength during this difficult time!
January 13, 2014
Nate Zimmerman
I'm praying for your family at this most difficult time. Matthew 5:4 - Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
January 13, 2014
Sherry Sigmon
Sally...so so sorry to hear about Arika. Prayers and God's blessing.
January 13, 2014
Tiffany Bohannon
Your Family is in our prayers! God strength through this difficult time.
January 13, 2014
Jennifer Melchor Stump
January 13, 2014
Annette Demers
A Mommy taken too soon from her babies, you, your children, and your family are in my thoughts and prayers! May God Forever hold you in his arms and watch over your family here on earth!
January 13, 2014
Ann Denzer
Condolences for your loss, Sally and family. You are in my prayers.
January 13, 2014
Angie Powers
My condolences go out to all of her family. You are definitely not far from my mind and you will stay that way. I know that Arika is looking down and thinking, "why grieve?" She would want everyone to celebrate her life.
My thoughts go to them boys that were her pride and joy. She was so very proud and she will remain proud. Not only that, but now their guardian angels.
Beautiful Strawberry Blonde angel with her halo!
Much love!
January 13, 2014
May God give you the strength and peace to cope with your loss.
Glenda Johnson, Murrells Inlet, SC
January 13, 2014
Bryan and Ashley Adams
Praying for the whole family!
January 13, 2014
A facebook group page has been set up for Arika. R.I.P Arika Wright. Please join the group and add your comments and memories that will be available for family and friends.
January 13, 2014
Donna Baldwin
My beautiful friend, Arika, I can't believe you left us. I am deeply saddened and heart broken, but I know you are at peace. What an amazing and special friendship we built and shared over these past 14 years. Together we watched our little boys grow into fine, young men, as we continually bonded and grew stronger in our friendship. We shared many fun times, great talks, and lots and lots of laughter. You were crazy, I was crazy, and together we were "one hot mess!" I will forever hold you dear in my heart, and continue to treasure all the wonderful memories we made together. God has blessed me with many special friends in my life, but I am so lucky that he blessed me with a friend as awesome and precious as you. I will love you and cherish you forever, Arika Wright Carden, and I will miss you dearly until we meet again!!!!
January 13, 2014
Misti Sherrill
Arika was a great friend and mother. She will always be remembered by her beautiful smile and her caring heart. May God be with her family and give them peace.
January 13, 2014
Erin Sigmon
Arika was one who's smile made you remember her, God Bless you all during this difficult time.
January 13, 2014
Pam Holly
I only knew you for a short time, but you have touched my heart in so many ways. Your mom was by your side every day, and is such a shining star. We all knew you were in Gods hands. I say this to myself, and believe it with all my heart that God needs Angels and he definitely found an Angel with you. May your family find peace and may your sons always know that they have a very special Angel with them and loving them from above. Rest in peace young lady, prayers to all your family and loved ones.
January 13, 2014
Kathie Rodriguez
Praying for God to give you strength!
January 13, 2014
Angela Carrothers
May your soul rest in peace
January 13, 2014
Heather McKinney
Our prayers go out to Arika's family, friends, & loved ones. God bless you with comfort and peace.
January 13, 2014
Glenda Hensley Foster
I am so very sorry for the loss of Arika. Your family will be in my prayers.
January 13, 2014
Erika Rowland
January 13, 2014
Sandy Laxton
In loving memory... You will be missed arika.
January 13, 2014
Jim & Barbara Turner
Remember the many times she spent time at our house during her high school years. She was a good friend and a pleasure to have around. Our sympathy to the family and prayers for peace and comfort in the days to come. With love, Jim and Barbara Turner
January 13, 2014
We are so sorry for your loss. You are all in our prayers.
Karen & Doris Mayes
January 13, 2014
Robin Deitz
Your light will always shine in our hearts!!!!
January 13, 2014
Benny and Charlene Thomas
Our thoughts and our prayers go out to all of the Carden and Wright family of Arika Wright. May God comfort and strengthen each of you and bring peace in your hearts knowing that heaven gained another angel.
January 13, 2014
Jenee Randall
I will always remember your smile, your laugh and the way you giggled with all your friends at WCU. I am at a loss for words. I pray for the strength needed for your sons to continue this journey and be the best young men they can be as they now have a guardian angel above. I am so so sorry!
January 13, 2014
Deborah Lowman
I just wanted to say i'm so sorry for your loss. Now she's an ANGEL watching over her family. Arika you will be missed. May God Bless all
January 13, 2014
Brian & Tina Light
January 13, 2014
Angie and Darius
Love you Arika, I will miss seeing your smiling face and the great times we shared at the ballfield. Prayers to your family and friends that will miss you dearly.
January 13, 2014
Melanie Lipton
January 13, 2014
Sonya Robinson Ramseur
You will be greatly missed. God has received one awesome angel in heaven ?
January 13, 2014
Alice Averitt
Praying for her family and especially her sons. Your mom was a special person!
January 13, 2014
Shawna Cloninger
So very sorry for your loss, her family is in our prayers.
Peace be with you,
January 13, 2014
Becky Decker-Flowers
January 13, 2014
Bonnie Jenkins
The baseball stands will not be the same. Arika was such a loving mom & friend. She will be missed by many. Our family will be praying for peace and comfort.
Much Love,
Bonnie, Danny, Ely, & Ella Jenkins
January 13, 2014
Pamela Pearson
You will be missed. God has called home one of his angels whom we all loved.
January 13, 2014
Cassie Kidder and family
You will be truely missed by many! God took his angel home! Im going to miss you my friend! Go high up on that mountain girl and soar into the clouds but mainly go rest with Jesus and cry no more! Until we meet again! I will never forget you! My thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time. I pray god will also give you peace and comfort!
January 13, 2014
Marc & Amy Bishop
January 13, 2014
Jaclyn Smith
January 13, 2014
Robby Pugh
God has gained a true Angel. You were the life of every baseball tournament. You always looked out for Kelsea while we played. There will always be a special place in our hearts for you. Love always Robby, Kim, Kelsea and Kynsea.
January 13, 2014
Kelly Christensen
Arika, you will be greatly missed by many...love to your family in this time of need.
January 13, 2014
Jake shehan Jr
After meeting Arika, she was your best friend in less than 10 minutes. The most giving, sincere and general the best kind of person you could meet. One of the best mothers I knew. Always supporting her boys in every way possible. The world will miss you Arika, may you rest in peace.
January 13, 2014
Lori, Grace & Tara Morrow-Tomlin
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