Joseph Lee Wright, Jr., 69, of Portsmouth, VA went to be with the Lord on Sunday, April 9, 2023 while at Portside Health and Rehabilitation Center in Portsmouth, VA. He was the eldest son of the late Joseph Lee Wright, Sr., and the late Cleopatra W. Wright. In addition to his parents, he was predeceased by his brother, Kevin A. Wright, Sr.
Joe (Ricky) attended both Woodrow Wilson and Manor High Schools in Portsmouth. He began his career working for General Electric before moving on to work at Southeastern VA Training Center. He concluded his career working Tidewater Community College.
Joe was a jovial person who loved making those around him laugh as he recounted stories of the past or humorous events of the day. As a youth, he could often be found with his younger brother Kevin as the roamed Oakleaf Park in Norfolk before moving to Cavalier Manor. He played football for Woodrow Wilson before moving to Manor High School where he was a leader in protesting discriminatory practices at the new school. He married then Theresa Bryant and they had a son, Sherroid who is the first grandchild of Joe’s parents. He went on to have a daughter, Matikka (Cydney deceased). Joe spent the closing years of his life caring for his parents during their respective illnesses. His gentleness and humor encouraged them.
He is survived by his children: Sherroid D. Bryant and Matikka Pittman (Adedayo Odubawo). And his siblings Jerroid Wright, Brian Wright (Lisa), Angel Halstead and Marc Wright. And grandchildren Whittney Carey, step-grandchildren Jason and Janelle Odubawo. And nieces, and nephews.
