**Due to a Family Emergency, the Calling Hours and Services for this evening, March 7, 2025 are being postponed to a later date.**

Fishkill-Joseph J. Wright, jazz drummer and English professor, passed away at his home in Fishkill, NY on February 16, 2025. He was 83 years old. He moved to Fishkill after marrying Teresa (Hood) on September 5, 2020. Previously, he resided in Croton-on-Hudson, NY.

Joe was born in Manhattan, NY on August 7, 1941, son of the late John and Delia (Laffey) Wright. He pursued his passions for jazz and writing throughout his life.

After completing his MA in 1983, he taught English and music history at various colleges including Marymount, Mercy and the Prison Program at Ossining and Bedford Correctional Facilities. He retired in 2017 from the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

For over 50 years, he played drums professionally in many jazz groups throughout NYC and the Hudson Valley. His last gig was summer weekends at the Depot Restaurant in Cold Spring, NY; it lasted 30 years.

Joe is survived by his wife Teresa and his niece Julie (Thompson) Bilgrav. He is predeceased by his siblings: John "Jack," Eugene and Anne (Thompson) Wright.

Due to a family emergency, calling hours and services have been postponed. McHoul Funeral Home of Fishkill Inc. 1089 Main Street, Fishkill, NY 12524.

Memorial donations can be made in Joseph J. Wright's name to either the Alzheimer's Association at www.act.alz.org or the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation at www.louisarmstrongfoundation.org/donate/.