Visitation
Obituary of Joanne "Jo" (Wright) Smith
Webster: Joanne “Jo” (Wright) Smith, passed peacefully at home surrounded by family on October 2, 2024. Born on November 1, 1950, she grew up in the village of Webster as the middle child with her brother and three sisters, Claude, Lorrilyn, Valerie and Christine.
Joanne was a 1968 graduate of RL Thomas High School and a 1972 graduate of SUNY Potsdam, earning her bachelor’s degree in education. It was in college where she met her husband, Peter Smith. They were married in Webster on July 20, 1974. Together they raised two daughters.
She taught elementary school in East Rochester, NY, Ballston Spa, NY, and Poquosin, VA as she followed her husband during his military service. She also was a substitute elementary teacher in Greece, Syracuse and Webster, NY.
Joanne had a strong faith and lived a life of service. She was a devoted teacher, wife, mother, friend, beloved “Nana” to four grandchildren, and caregiver to many. She was an active member of the Webster Methodist Church and served in many capacities; most passionately, Sunday School Teacher.
Joanne shared her love of cooking and baking by hosting countless family holidays. She loved golf, traveling with friends, and cherished her summers on Sodus Bay. She was a cruise ship fan and enjoyed her many cruise ship voyages to the Caribbean and the Mediterranean countries.
Predeceased by her parents, Claude G. and Geraldine Wright; sister, Lorrilyn (Edward) Jones. She leaves her husband of 50 years, Peter; daughters, Kaitlyn (Jerry) Tagliente and Jaclyn Brosnan; grandchildren Jackson and Corrine Tagliente, Mackenzie and Cooper Brosnan; siblings, Claude H. Wright, Valerie (Doug) Wahl, Christine (Vern) Wright-Kelley; and many nieces and nephews.
Friends are invited to a visitation 2-4 PM Wednesday, October 9, at Willard H. Scott Funeral Home, 12 South Ave., Webster. Private family services and interment. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to Rochester Parkinson Network, PO Box 18606, Rochester, NY 14618