John Curling Wright

1940 - 2026

Bishop John Curling Wright
January 10, 1940 – March 23, 2026
Bishop John Curling Wright, born January 10, 1940, in Hemingway, SC, to the late Edward and Almeter Wright, was called from labor to reward on Monday, March 23, 2026. He graduated from Howard High School in Georgetown, SC, in 1958 and moved to New Haven, CT, in 1959.
Following his honorable service in the United States Army, Bishop Wright furthered his secular education at the University of New Haven and worked for the New Haven Housing Authority. He also pursued religious studies, earning multiple degrees, including a Doctor of Sacred Theology. He married Virginia Covington on April 27, 1963, and to this union, three children were born: Phillip, Phyllis, and Elaine.
Bishop Wright accepted his call to the ministry in 1975. He was ordained an Elder in 1979, served as Assistant Pastor of Mount Hope Temple, and was installed as Pastor in 1991, a role he faithfully held for 22 years. He was consecrated to the Office of Bishop in 1994, in the United Holy Church of America, Inc. (UHCA). In 2000, he became President of the New England District UHCA. He also served as President of the Greater New Haven Clergy Association.
Bishop Wright leaves to cherish his memory, his beloved wife of 62 years, Virginia Covington Wright; three sisters; three children; six grandchildren; five great-grandchildren; and a host of other relatives, godchildren, and spiritual sons and daughters.
A visitation for Bishop Wright will be held Wednesday, April 1, 2026, from 4:00 – 7:00 PM, with remarks from 7:00 – 8:00 PM, at Mt. Hope Temple, 555 Dixwell Ave., New Haven, CT 06511. Calling hours will held on Thursday, April 2, 2026, from 8:00 – 11:00 AM at Beulah Heights First Pentecostal Church, 782 Orchard St., New Haven, CT 06511. A Service of Triumph immediately following the calling hour at 11:00 AM at the church. Interment with military honors will be held at Beaverdale Memorial Park, New Haven. Services by Howard K. Hill Funeral Services, 1287 Chapel St., New Haven, CT 06511. To leave a message of comfort for Bishop Wright's family, please visit, www.hkhfuneralservices.com .