John Wesley Modest, Jr.

1947-2016

Houston, TX

John Wesley Modest, Jr. passed away Thursday, February 25, 2016 in Houston, Texas. The celebration of life memorial service will be March 2, 2016 at Greater Grace Outreach Church at 1:00 p.m, 10800 Scott St., Houston, TX 77047.

John Wesley Modest, Jr. was born February 4, 1947 to John and Bernice Modest in Schenectady, New York. He was the oldest of four male children; Gregory, Jeffery and David.

On November 8, 2006, John married the love of his life, Annetta Thomas. To this union one daughter was born, Bryce Elizabeth Modest.

John was educated in Schenectady Public Schools in New York where he graduated from Linton High School with honors. He earned a B.A. Degree in Sociology from Northeastern University, a M.A Degree in Educational Administration from North Carolina Central University and pursued additional graduate work at Harvard University, North Carolina State University and Northeastern University.

John's career history included roles at the Cambridge Public School System, Wake County School System (counselor, assistant principal and principal), Charlotte-Mecklenburg School System (Principal of West Charlotte High School), Guilford County School System in Greensboro, North Carolina (Regional Superintendent) and Houston Independent School District at Worthing High School (Principal).

He was selected as Wake County's Middle School Principal of the Year and twice as the North Carolina PTA Educator of the Year. He was the only principal in the state of North Carolina to have worked at two schools that received the prestigious Governor's Award. While serving as principal at West Charlotte High School, Bill and Melinda Gates visited and donated money there to help transform the teaching and learning system.

He was preceded in death by his parents and his three brothers.

He leaves to cherish his memory his loving wife Annetta Thomas Modest. He is also survived by two daughters Bryce Elizabeth Modest and Naja Harvey and husband Theo, two grandchildren; Laila and Langston Harvey, four sister–in–laws, four brother–in–laws and a host of nieces and nephews.

To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.

Published by The News & Observer on Mar. 1, 2016.

Memories and Condolences
for John Modest

48 Entries

Glen Kauffman

March 2, 2025

I remember John fondly as my Resident Advisor at White Hall at Northeastern University. He was very tolerant of our hijinks,even when we threw a keg party in our room, which was right next to his. It's not surprising that he had such a successful career and touched so many lives.

Jasmine Hemphill

October 15, 2023

I just so happen to come across old West charlotte photos and etc and came across his name. He was a great principal may he rest in peace.

Clifton & Ramona Scott

February 26, 2023

You are remembered each day of your great leadership. Rest on!

Beth Garry

March 13, 2022

I still remember John often, and fondly during 1967-68.
My brother also knew him during the time he worked at METCO. HE was a wonderful man!

Elaine (Davis) Huszar

March 12, 2022

I only recently learned of John´s passing and his life after our `65 graduation from Linton.
It was not surprising to read he had become an educator and touched so many lives.
I did not know John well, mainly through our study hall exchanges when we weren´t supposed to be talking, but I can attest to the fact that John was highly respected at Linton, not because he was a driving force on the basketball court, but due to his kindness and character. In a class of 600 plus, he was a standout for all the right reasons. RIP John, and belated condolences to his wife and daughters.

Ramona & Clifton Scott

February 23, 2022

Each year we think of Mr. Modest as a great man and strong leader for us all. He is missed so much. Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School will always hold him dear to our hearts. Continue to rest in the Heavenly Father's Arms.

Beth Garry

February 26, 2021

I still remember John fondly from Northeastern University. My brother met him later, at Minuteman Vocational Technical H.S. in Lexington, MA, when John was working with the METCO program.

Elaine Worthey

February 25, 2021

My memories of John as a vibrant, approachable and amazing Principal at Southeast Raleigh High remain as vivid today as ever. When John accepted the opportunity to come to West Charlotte, he invited me to be part of his team but I declined, not knowing how I would regret that decision years later. Nevertheless, many Principals later, he remains my favorite and probably always will.

November 19, 2019

This is a shock to me. I had asked my husband did he remembered our middle school principal & that is when he told me he has passed. OMG! Mr. Modest was such a great principal. Whenever I saw him he would always call me "superstar". I am 42 years old now and I tell my kids there was never a principal like Mr.Modest.

February 23, 2019

Both my dear husband Robert Christesen (who passed in the same year as Mr. Modest) and I knew John and respected him highly. I enjoyed working at South East Raleigh HS in the capacity of Academically Gifted Resource Teacher when Mr. Modest was the principal there. He struck me as an approachable leader who often interacted with students in the hallways in a friendly yet firm manner trying to teach them good manners. He gave his employees enough space to flourish and develop their true potential. A leader of his caliber is still remembered fondly today and is sorely missed. I am taking this opportunity to send hugs to his family members and loved ones.
Mirka Christesen

Elaine Worthey

June 7, 2017

It has been a year since his passing but not a day goes by that I don't think of John. I pass by his house daily because we were neighbors in Charlotte, but he was my Principal at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School. Warm, funny, handsome and always smelled good, he was loved and deeply respected by staff and students alike. At each class change bell, he would be on a hall saying "Hi," encouraging the students, counseling a young man or just being there. I loved that about him.
I can't imagine how his family is continuing to adjust to his absence but I'm sure they are like so many others who remember John from this truth: "People may not always remember what all you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel." Thank you John W. Modest.

Elaine Worthey
Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School

Beth Garry

November 30, 2016

I remember John so fondly from my freshman year at Northestern. He was a smart, kind and funny man. I am sorry for your loss.

Cheryl V. Miller* Administrative Assistant* BETHANY METHODIST WEEKDAY SCHOOL

Cheryl Miller

March 10, 2016

Annetta and Bryce, I love you and join all our brothers and sisters, in Christ, who offer prayers of comfort and prayers of peace. I thank God for the opportunity to have met and enjoyed the presence of your family!

As evidenced by all the condolences, it's a true blessing that God chose to share HIS child, John Modest, with you and all of us!

My brothers and sisters, I'm reminded of meeting John, Annetta and Bryce when they arrived in Houston and toured Bethany Methodist Weekday School. Bryce was enrolled and we enjoyed every day with her and her family. The staff and myself were truly blessed to have them as part of our Bethany family.

I remember John and Annetta as being fun, intelligent, energetic, pleasant and respectful to Bryce and all our staff. As a family, they proved to be excellent role models with strong values, ethics and a commitment to serve our Houston community.

What a testimony to witness John and Annetta's love for God, each other, and their darling, beautiful daughter Bryce!

Each school day, either John or Annetta began Bryce's school day with having her join them in greeting our staff. After Bryce would get a sticker, from the front office staff, John or Annetta would walk her to class. As they walked down the hall, we took pleasure in how much they valued and enjoyed each moment with Bryce.

They would listen intently to whatever Bryce wanted to talk about. We could hear laughter in their conversations and as they happily answered all of Bryce's questions! At dismissal, John and/or Annetta would still have a warm smile and kind words for Bryce and every staff member they encountered! They had the same disposition even if you saw them at Costco's! They became people I grew to admire, know and respect.

I'll always cherish the memory of John Modest as a loving husband, daddy, servant to the community and a true man of God!

I close, in the name of our Lord Jesus, asking that peace and blessings continue to flow for Annetta, Bryce and all of John's family and friends. Amen
------
John 10:27-28 (KJV)
"My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me: And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any man pluck them out of my hand."

Cheryl V. Miller
Administrative Assistant I
Bethany Methodist Weekday School

Ivy Smith

March 9, 2016

My condolences to the family of Mr. Modest; he was such an outstanding person, leader and principle.

alexis jordan

March 7, 2016

may my condolences goes out to the modest family and friends. I will truly miss Mr. modest he will be miss. He was always positive to his students.

Deborah Prickett

March 4, 2016

My condolences go out to the family of John Modest. I had the great pleasure of working with Mr. Modest at the Southeast Raleigh High School in my role as counselor. You couldn't have asked for a more wonderful, caring boss and principal. I can still see him standing in the middle of the gym floor during huge pep rallies with students remaining completely quiet while listening to his every word with the utmost respect. You see, he treated everyone like they were the most important, valued individuals in the school. He was witty, talented, and sincere. You will always be a special part of my life and those of us you've touched in Wake County.

March 4, 2016

My condolences to the Modest family. Mr. Modest was my first principal as a new teacher (1993) at Daniels Middle School in Raleigh, NC. I always had the greatest respect for his approach to education. He will be missed.

Kelvin L. Spragley

Erik S. c/o 2005

March 3, 2016

For many of us, He was a father. For me, an example of what success looks like. For me, the example of how to connect and to be personable with the community around them. And to take pride in what you do. Thanks.

Clifton & Ramona Scott & Family

March 2, 2016

Our sincere condolences goes out to the family of Mr. John Modest, Jr. We all have lost a great, leader and an outstanding educator. It is saddened he has departed from us, but his memories & work shall never fade. He was not only a good person by heart but also soul. We're wishing the family Peace, Comfort and Hope in the midst of their sorrow. Mr. Modest, you will be missed. We love you but God loves you best. Clifton Sr., Ramona, Clifton Jr. & David Scott

Mirka Christesen

March 2, 2016

The world has lost an exceptional educator and person. I had an opportunity to work with Mr. Modest at South East Raleigh High School when he was the principal and I was the school's Academically Gifted Coordinator. His laid-back style, friendly demeanor, high expectations, a sense of humor, as well as respect he showed to each and every one of us were a part of the formula that worked. SRHS flourished under his leadership. He moved on from there and continued to be successful. My deepest condolences to his family.

Audrey Blackmon

March 2, 2016

Condolences to the family of Mr. John Modest. It was a pleasure to work for Mr. Modest during his tenure at West Charlotte High School

Janet Hall

March 2, 2016

A great motivator, magnificent educator and a remarkable visionary.He will be missed, but his impact will be everlasting.

Andre' Jackson

March 2, 2016

West Charlotte Lions, Class of 2012, express heartfelt sympathy in the passing of Mr. Modest, a true Lion. Gone but always in our heart.

Barbara Evans

March 2, 2016

Mr. Modest was a great boss, colleague and friend. I had the wonderful opportunity to have worked with him at West Charlotte High during his tenure in CMS. My condolences to his family. He will be missed. "Bless those who mourn, for God will comfort them" Matthew 5:4

Levones Taylor Chisholm

March 2, 2016

Sad to hear of the passing of Mr. Modest. Got to know him and enjoyed working with him during his tenure with Charlotte Mecklenburg Schools.

Pamela Homolya

March 2, 2016

I was saddened to hear of John's death....he was an outstanding and inspirational educator, and a kind and thoughtful person. It was an honor to work with him; he was very supportive of his staff and I believe, there wasn't a student he didn't know by name at Daniels Middle. He will always be remembered. Heartfelt condolences, thoughts and prayers to his family.

Melinda Tomlinson

March 2, 2016

I am class of 2002 from Southeast Raleigh High School. Mr. Modest was a great man and fine principal always going out of his way to greet his students and making them feel like they mattered. He will be greatly missed.

Rogerlene Cotten

March 2, 2016

Sorry to hear about the passing of Mr. Modest.
He was a great man, that could make anything happen for the good of the kids and his staff. I enjoyed working with him at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School. May the peace of God be with the family.

Vodra Carter-Jones

March 1, 2016

I am sorry to hear of the passing of Mr. Modest. He had a heart of gold. I have never ever worked for a better person. He cared for his students, employees and coworkers. He was a role model for his students. When he left North Garner Middle, it was never the same. Your hearts may be heavy right now, and nothing anyone may say may make you feel better, but know that Mr. Modest was one of a kind and nothing can take away the great memories you have of him. May God bless each and everyone of you. He touched many lives and those lives are better because of his touch.

March 1, 2016

Please accept my heartfelt condolences on the loss of your loved one, may God give you strength and comfort during this difficult time. Ps 46 : 1

Charles (Chuck) Cobb

March 1, 2016

I was greatly saddened to hear of Mr. Modest's passing. I came to know him when he was principal at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School in 1999. He was the major driver behind the development of the Biotechnology program at SRMHS. I had the extreme good fortune to be hired to teach AP Ecology and to step in to teach the Biotechnology course just as he and his staff had finished the preliminaries for the program. Under his direction, the program merged with the Medical Sciences to form the Academy of Biomedical Science. I was saddened when he left Southeast Raleigh and I felt that the program became somewhat diminished in his absence. I followed his successes in other school systems and we have lost a very important person in the US educational system. He was one of those rare principals who asked teachers how he could help them when times were rough. The world is a much better place because he was here.

I send my most sincere condolences to his family.

Charles S. Cobb PhD. NBCT

Antwan Hunter

March 1, 2016

Thanks for everything you did for me in Highschool, making sure I kept my head on straight and focus on the goal of graduating and joining the Navy.

-Thanks
ANTWAN HUNTER

Sharon Cooper

March 1, 2016

Naja, I light this candle in memory of your father. May he rest in peace. Praying for you.

Cheri Dunston

March 1, 2016

My sincere condolences goes out to Mr. Modest's family. I was a student at Southeast Raleigh High School and have many fond memories of him and how encouraging and positive he was to all his students.

He will be missed.

Dr .Regina Hagood

March 1, 2016

My sincere condolences goes out to Mr. Modest's family. Mr. Modest was a great principal and a fine educator. I enjoyed being under his administration at West Charlotte High School. He will be greatly missed.
Dr. Regina D. Hagood

Shiree Izzard

March 1, 2016

You were such a great man, principal and friend...you will truly be missed...RIP

India Nicholson Class of 2001

March 1, 2016

Mr. Modest was an awesome principal. He was diffently one of a kind. He fought for his students and knew them too. He was there for me doing a difficult time in my life. He was there whenever I need someone to talk to and kept pushing me to do better. He will be missed greatly and he was one of a kind. I'm glad that he was able to touch my life. My heart and prayers go out to his family.

Marilyn J.

March 1, 2016

We are deeply sadden to hear of the loss of your loved one, Mr. Modest. He was the principle at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School when my daughter was there, he went on to West Charlotte High where my friend worked and she had nothing but great things to say about him. He will be missed. I know that you know that the Lord does things for a reason and God always knows best. He had another servant in his garden now. May you get through this very difficult time with as less grieve as possible and we will be praying that the Lord will continue to Heal, and Bless You All!!

Marilyn Johns

March 1, 2016

Vivian Morgan

March 1, 2016

Mr Modest was a very charismatic, kind and compassionate soul. It truly is a great loss to education as well as to the former students and staff at Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School. Mr Modest was Southeast Raleigh, the original Bulldog! He made such an impact on all students and staff. He was about making sure that all kids at Southeast get the opportunity to become successful individuals during and after high school. As for the staff, We Were Family, because Mr Modest was about family and wanted his school to be about family. He made it so.

John Modest was a wonderful person to work for and with. My children literally grew up at Southeast Raleigh and Mr Modest made my children part of the Bulldog Family and easily became attached to my daughter. I as well as others will truly miss this kindred spirit. Rest in peace my friend.
Mrs Morgan

Beatriz Arnillas

March 1, 2016

I met John in a Management for School Leaders class. It did not take long to admire and trust him. John was a caring and fiercely committed educator, and a loving husband and father. John will be sorely missed by all who met him. Our hearts are with Annetta and his daughters.

Tiona Vernon

March 1, 2016

It so sad to hear that Mr. Modest has passed. You never know how someone's presence has touched you until situation such as these. Mr. Modest was an awesome educator and influential during his time at Southeast Raleigh High School. He will be missed.

Martina Jenkins

March 1, 2016

Mr Modest was one of the greatest principals, black male role model and father figure to us students at SRHS! He made us all feel that he cared about our future! Gone but NEVER forgotten! RIP!

Matt and Martina (Crudup) Jenkins

Elaine Jacobs Hanpton

March 1, 2016

Mr. Modest was an excellent educator and advocate for students. My deepest condolences to his family.

Nicole Douse

February 29, 2016

A wonderful man who touched many lives. He raised his students like we were his own children. He will truly be missed but his memory will never fade because we are products of a job very well done. Southeast Raleigh class of '99.

Susan

February 29, 2016

John was an awesome principal while my sons attended Southeast Raleigh Magnet High School, and I was on staff at the school under his leadership. Education has suffered a great loss.

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