Dr. Wyrick was born in New Orleans, Louisiana. His family moved to Miami, Florida, then Newnan, Georgia where he graduated from high school. He earned a degree in English from the University of Georgia. After earning a master's degree in psychology from West Georgia College, he taught English and Social Studies at Lyons Middle School and Clarke Central High School in Athens. While earning his doctorate in counseling from the University of Georgia, he directed a program to reduce suspensions in Clarke County Schools. In 1983, Dr. Wyrick joined the JCCHS staff as a counselor. In addition to working in schools, Dr. Wyrick spent eight years as an announcer, newsman, and program director for radio stations. He also has been an airport lineboy, cleared pipelines in Georgia swamps, and bailed hay on his father's farm. His greatest regret is that he was laid off before he could begin his job as a raisin washer for Benson Fruitcake company. President Nixon declared an embargo on raisins, so the second shift was cancelled. He has been married to Pat James for 26 years and has three daughters.