Joseph Wright

“TO BE ABSENT FROM THE BODY IS TO BE PRESENT WITH THE LORD”

1 CORINTHIANS 5:8

 Joseph I. Wright, 82, son of the late Joe and Estelle (Cotton) Wright and the beloved husband of the late Shirley Ann Wright departed his life on Aug 13, 2021.  God sent his heavenly angels, “Grace and Mercy”, to call his faithful servant home. He was born Aug 27, 1938, in Raleigh, North Carolina. 

Joe received his education in the Wake County Public School System, attended Berry O’Kelly High School.  He began his religious walk at an early age while attending his family church, Lincolnville AME.  He loved sharing stories of his early childhood, while playing on the high school basketball team, driving the school bus, and singing in the school talent show.  Joe met “The Love of His Life” Shirley Brownlee while in high school to whom he went on to marry    June 30, 1958.  This union was blessed with three children Brenda, Joseph Jr. (Constance), and Gregory (Cherie).  In 1962, the family relocated to the Washington D.C. metropolitan area and eventually to Temple Hills, Maryland.

Joe was well-known for his considerably strong work ethic throughout his entire life.  He was often teased amicably for holding full-time positions while simultaneously working part-time for many years, especially during inclement weather.  Joe retired from the Laborers District Local Union #74 in Washington DC.  Additionally, he was an employee for several years at the US Department of Transportation.  He transitioned to his next career at Barretta USA Corporation in Accokeek, MD where he was employed until his final retirement from the workforce.  Joe had a great love for college basketball.  He was a devoted fan of the University of North Carolina “Tarheels”.  Joe possessed a talkative spirit to anyone he encountered regardless of a person’s background or the subject of the conversation.  He would always find a common interest.

His kindness and generosity will surely be missed by all who knew and loved him. We find comfort in knowing that he is now resting peacefully in the arms of our “Lord and Savior Jesus Christ”.

He was preceded in death by his late wife Shirley, sisters Gloria, Elinor, Leslie, Clarice, and brother Henry.  He also leaves to cherish his daughter Brenda, sons Joseph Jr. (Constance), and Gregory (Cherie), three grandchildren Curtis (Leneice), Donnell, Cherelle (Adrian), and one great-grand daughter Bailey.  He also leaves behind a special Uncle & Aunt, Isaac and Doris Cotton, and a host of family and friends. 

 Lovingly submitted

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