Tyree Currywas an exceptional individual. A man of distinction: educator, civil rights activist, photographer, D.J. and all-around Renaissance man. Curry always a familiar face, keen eye for details, kind word of encouragement and a smile to melt hearts. Through his leadership he helped to improve education for several generations of Hempstead's youth, as he fought to make things better for African-Americans and all others in the community. Mayor Wayne Hall has renamed the annual 5K races in his honor and created a memorial academic scholarship.
All donations to the scholarship fund can be sent to Village Hall, Village of Hempstead, 99 Nichols Ct, Hempstead, NY 11550 and check payable to Hempstead High School Scholarship Fund with a note in the memo section specifying Tyree Curry.
Tyree Curry is a native of the state of Mississippi; he was born in 1942 in Canton. He graduated high school in 1959. He played trumpet in the high school band, and placed
third in his graduating class.
In 1959 Tyree enrolled at Jackson State College. He continued playing trumpet in the college’s Marching Band.
In 1963 Tyree graduated from Jackson State as a state certified English teacher. He then taught English at
his alma mater, Rogers High School for one year. Tyree taught English and served as Band Director at Magnolia Junior High School from 1964 to 1969.
In 1969 Tyree responded to an advertisement by the Hempstead Public Schools and was interviewed by Mr. Marshall Jenkins at Jackson Main School. As a result of the interview, Tyree was recommended to the Board of Education to fill the position. The Hempstead Board of Education placed Tyree Curry on its docket as a teacher at Jackson Main School, in which Tyree considered this action as the highlight of his career.
Tyree’s career in Hempstead began at Jackson Main School as a teacher and as a Principal of several schools in the district. During these various assignments Tyree was able to be actively involved with numerous local organizations.
Tyree developed a love of photography and could be seen at events all around taking photographs. What
started out as a hobby lead to a position as the photographer with the Village of Hempstead. His love of music was shared as he served as a DJ for many occasions.
In the fall of 2002 Tyree retired from the Hempstead Public Schools’ system and remained eternally grateful to the community for offering him 34 years of supportive employment. In his retirement Tyree could still be seen from time-to-time snapping photos up until his passing this summer.
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