Funeral Held Today for Pelham Middle School Teacher

Joseph Dwyer, a seventh grade English teacher at Pelham Middle School, was buried today after dying unexpectedly last week.

Dwyer’s funeral was held at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church in Pelham Manor this morning.

Dwyer, 56, a Pelham resident, received his bachelor’s degree from Fordham University and a master’s degree in education. He was a photo editor at Newsweek before beginning a second career in education. He recently became a tenured teacher at the middle school.

In a message to parents, middle school principal Joseph Longobardi said Dwyer will be remembered for his thoughtful and caring nature and his involvement in the school district.

“During his three years at our school as both a teacher and coach he earned the respect of his students, staff and parents for his dedication, hard work and commitment to the children of Pelham,” Longobardi said. “He will truly be missed by the middle school family.”