J.B.F. Wright was a minister and songwriter who made a lasting mark in gospel music with his deeply emotional hymn Precious Memories.
He was active in the early 20th century and wrote hymns as a way to share personal expressions of faith and loss.
Wright wasn’t a mainstream musician, but his contribution has endured through generations of churchgoers and recording artists.
About the Song
Precious Memories is a cherished gospel hymn whose lyrics reflect on moments of love, family, and faith that live on in memory, especially after loss.
Its gentle rhythm and comforting message have made it a staple in both church services and memorials.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Release Date | 1925 |
| Writer | J.B.F. Wright |
| Notable Recordings | Tennessee Ernie Ford, Alan Jackson, Dolly Parton, Jim Reeves, George Jones |
Complete Lyrics of Precious Memories
Precious memories, unseen angels
Sent from somewhere to my soul
How they linger, ever near me
And the sacred scenes unfold
Precious memories, how they linger
How they ever flood my soul
In the stillness of the midnight
Precious, sacred scenes unfold
Precious father, loving mother
Fly across the lonely years
And old home scenes of my childhood
In fond memory appear
In the stillness of the midnight
Echoes from the past I hear
Old-time singing, gladness bringing
From that lovely land somewhere
I remember mother praying
Father, too, on bended knee
Sun is sinking, shadows falling
But their prayers still follow me
As I travel on life’s pathway
Know not what the years may hold
As I ponder, hope grows fonder
Precious memories flood my soul
Similar Songs Like Precious Memories
There’s something timeless about Precious Memories. If that song brought you peace or stirred old feelings, these other hymns may do the same:
- I’ll Have a New Life: A joyful tune about leaving behind pain and gaining a brand-new body and soul in the life to come.
- Jesus Is My Life: In this hymn, Wright focuses on Jesus as the center of all things. It’s simple, steady, and full of devotion.
- When I Get to the End of the Way: This moving song talks about finding peace after life. It brings hope to those who are tired or grieving.
Similar Songwriters Like J.B.F. Wright
J.B.F. Wright’s gospel songs reflect a deep sense of memory, faith, and family. If you enjoy his style, you’ll find similar comfort and spiritual richness in the works of these early gospel pioneers:
- Thomas A. Dorsey
Genre: Gospel / Spirituals
Top albums: Precious Lord: New Recordings of the Great Songs of Thomas A. Dorsey (1973), Take My Hand, Precious Lord (1956), Peace in the Valley (1957) - Albert E. Brumley
Genre: Southern Gospel / Christian Hymns
Top albums: I’ll Fly Away and Other Brumley Gospel Favorites (1959), Turn Your Radio On (1964), Jesus, Hold My Hand (1961) - James D. Vaughan
Genre: Gospel / Quartet Hymns
Top albums: Songs of the Homeland (1910), Gospel Echoes (1913), Heaven’s Songbook (1915) - B.F. Ackley
Genre: Hymn Writing / Sacred Songs
Top albums: He Lives (1933), Somebody Cares (1931), Tell It Wherever You Go (1934) - C. Austin Miles
Genre: Hymn Writing / Devotional Music
Top albums: In the Garden (1912), Dwelling in Beulah Land (1915), Wide, Wide World (1916)
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Precious Memories Remain Popular?
Its heartfelt lyrics and universal theme of cherishing memories and loved ones have made it a beloved hymn across generations and musical styles.
How Many Songs did J.B.F. Wright Write?
Wright wrote over 200 songs and poems throughout his life.
Did J.B.F. Wright Receive Royalties for Precious Memories?
Wright made a verbal agreement for royalties but only received $36 from the first recording. After the publisher’s death, the agreement was not honored by the heirs.
