Joseph Luther Press II

Press

Joseph LUTHER Press II July 6, 1935 – August 15, 2022

Joseph Luther Press, II 87, transitioned August 15, 2022 following a courageous struggle with Alzheimer's Disease surrounded by his son, daughter-in-law, and grandson. He was a life-long Catholic. Joe grew up in Baltimore, MD, graduating from Frederick Douglas Senior High School in 1952 where he excelled in the classroom predicting his life of high academic achievement; from Coppin State Teachers College in 1957 with a major in Elementary Education; from Morgan State University in 1967 with a Master of Science Degree; and from Johns Hopkins University in 1974 with a second Master's Degree in Administration.



Joe's work in education spanned 44+ years. He touched the lives of thousands of children, teaching them directly, which he loved, and training other "teachers to teach". In 1961, he was chosen the Teacher of the year by the Afro American Newspaper. He went on to become an Assistant Principal for six years and a Principal for over 30 years. Joe was an exceptional leader.



After retirement, Joe continued to serve the community of future teachers as an Adjunct Instructor at Coppin State, Morgan State and Baltimore City College. In addition, he used his gifts and talents as a District Supervisor in the Sylvan Learning Systems Assessment Centers.



Joe was an active member of several organizations receiving much recognition and numerous awards for his efforts. He was a Life member of the NAACP, Vice President of the Catholic Board of Education Archdiocese of Baltimore, and a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity. Over the years, he generously and quietly helped many people - parents of children he taught, staff and faculty, relatives, and friends.



He was a gentleman of great charm, charisma, and possessed the ability to command tremendous respect. He was an exquisite dresser. Joe was an avid reader and debater. He enjoyed opera, live theater, the arts, travel, playing card games with family and friends, fine dining and was an excellent cook. But what he enjoyed most was completing the challenging crossword puzzle found in the Sunday Baltimore Sun. His was a life well lived.



Joe is survived by his son Joseph Luther Press, III (Tammy Alexander Press), his grandson Joseph Luther Press, IV (Amber Qureshi), former wife Patricia Rice Press (mother of son Joseph III), Cecilia Press, sister-in-law and a host of dear nieces, nephews, great nieces, great nephews, and friends. He was especially close to his niece Charlene and nephew Tyrone. The final nine years of his life were made more comfortable by his very devoted caregiver, Ardena Jones.



Family and Friends are invited to gather for a Celebration of Joe's life at 1213 Swan Harbour Circle, Fort Washington, MD 20744 on Saturday, September 24, 2022, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Celebration service will commence promptly at 2 p.m.