Josephine Wright, the resilient 94-year-old Hilton Head Island resident, passed away, leaving behind a legacy of unwavering determination and love for her family’s historic home.
Wright’s legal battle with a developer garnered national headlines and the support of celebrities, including Tyler Perry. The producer paid tribute to Wright as a ‘warrior’ who had ‘inspired’ him as she fought developers who tried to force her from her Civil War era home.
Perry shared his condolences for Wright’s passing on Monday, Jan. 8, 2024.
“I am so heartbroken to hear about the passing of this warrior. Ms. Josephine Wright, even though we spoke by phone, I was so looking forward to meeting you in person next month to hand you the keys to your new house, but God had other plans,” Perry explained in a post shared on Instagram. “My prayer is that you rest in peace knowing that I will honor the commitment that I made to you. I know you will be watching over us all as I hand those same keys to your family.”
He added, “So your 4 children, 40 grandchildren, 50 great-grandchildren and 4 great-great-grandchildren will still be able to gather at YOUR house on YOUR land and tell the world what kind of fighter that you were. You have run your race and fought an incredible fight! Journey well my dear lady. You have inspired me.”
The new home is planned to be built on Wright’s property.
She leaves behind four generations of children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great grandchildren, which Perry noted in his post.
Her family released a statement Monday which read:
“It is with heavy hearts that the Wright Family announce the passing of our beloved matriarch, Mrs. Josephine Wright, who peacefully transitioned on January 7, 2024, surrounded by family, loved ones, and prayers. Her legacy as a pillar of strength, wisdom, and commitment to justice will forever remain etched in our hearts.
As we navigate through the profound sadness of this loss, we find solace in knowing that Mrs. Wright’s spirit lives on through the Josephine Wright Foundation. From the bottom of our hearts, we express our sincere appreciation for the outpouring of love, condolences, and acts of kindness. Your solidarity during this period of grief has touched our family profoundly.”
According to the family, a homegoing service will be held for Wright at 1:00 p.m on Saturday, Jan. 13, at Mt. Calvary Baptist Church on Hilton Head Island. A virtual service will be provided for those of you who cannot attend.