Memories of Joseph Hunter

 Young boy grew into a great man

Joe Hunter was always a very special person. He was a third-grade student in my first year as a teacher at Covert Elementary School in South Hempstead. (Joe is the handsome boy in the top row wearing the jacket and tie for picture day.)

Joe was a kind, compassionate, smart, respectful and humble young boy. Goodness was in his soul and even at 8 years old, you knew he was and would continue to be a person of character. A class act in every sense of the phrase. Joe always volunteered to help anyone in need. He and his best friend, Chris Hill (top row standing next to me), stayed after school and helped me straighten up our classroom, cleaning the blackboard, clapping erasers or whatever needed to be done. Joe was generous in spirit to everyone he met. He did not like to see others in pain and never had an unkind word to say about anyone.

Over the years, I would hear about my former student – all good things of course. The young boy of character grew into a young man of substance who lived his dream of helping others. I was not surprised that Joe became a firefighter protecting lives. Something he knew he was born to do. It broke my heart when I heard the news that Joe lost his life in the 9/11 tragedy. His memorial service at St. Agnes Cathedral was packed with mourners who grieved the life cut way too short.

I often walk to the beautiful memorial for Joe at the South Hempstead Fire House. I stop and think of Joe and smile - for a life well led. I also think of his mom and dad, two incredibly humble and giving people who gave Joe the values and character he brought to life.

Jessie and Joe, you must be so proud of your beautiful son, Joe. He led a meaningful life that touched many lives. He lived his life with dignity and grace in service to his fellow man and country. He is sorely missed.

Dr. Marylou (Bridgeman) McDermott
Superintendent of Schools, Northport-East Northport UFSD