Herbert H. Wise

Herbert H. Wise, 84, of Rochester, NY, died peacefully on October 11, 2026. He was born on October 1, 1942 to Herbert and Mary Wise of Hartville, Ohio.

Herb pursued music throughout his life. He graduated from Lake High School and then Kent State University, Kent, Ohio with a B.S in Music Education and a Master’s Degree in Trombone Performance. He earned his Doctorate in Music Theory from Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY.

Herb taught music courses beginning in graduate school and then at SUNY Brockport, Monroe Community College, and other local colleges for 50 years until he retired in 2013. He conducted the UCC Church Choir in Spencerport, NY for over 25 years and played keyboard with various groups throughout the Rochester area for over 50 years. He was a Chancel Choir member at Third Presbyterian Church for 20 years.

His quiet, gentle personality coupled with his dry wit endeared him to all who met him.

Herbert is survived by his wife of 62 years, Kathryn, sister Robin Wise of Vancouver, Washington, brother Jon (Shawn) Wise of Wadsworth, Ohio and many nieces and nephews as well as great nieces and nephews. Herb was preceded in death by his son, Herbert (Hal) Wise, parents Herbert and Mary Wise, brother David Wise, sister Mary August, and sister-in-law Jody Hymes.

All are invited to attend a Memorial Service to be held Friday, October 23 at 1:00pm at Third Presbyterian Church, 4 Meigs Street, Rochester, NY 14607. Interment will be held later at St. Jacob’s Cemetery, North Canton, Ohio.

In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Alzheimer’s Association or Third Presbyterian Church Music Program. Condolences and memories may be shared at New Comer Funeral Home (https://www.newcomerrochester.com).