Rev. Claudia Joiner

Rev. Dr. Claudia Joiner 79 was a humble servant, a devoted husband, father, Pastor, and friend who walked faithfully with the Lord from an early age until God called him home June 19, 2025. His journey began in Hazlehurst, Mississippi, where he was born into a family grounded in faith. It was under the guidance of Rev. O.D. Afford that young Claudia accepted Jesus Christ as his Savior and was baptized—marking the beginning of a lifetime of dedicated service to God. After moving with his family to Ocean Springs, MS, he joined Macedonia Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. P.D. House. Under Dr. Trotter’s leadership, he served faithfully as Chairman of the Deacon Board before surrendering to the call of the gospel ministry. During his time at Macedonia, he held numerous leadership roles including President of the Baptist Training Union (BTU), Director of Sunday School and Vacation Bible School, and shepherded a dynamic youth choir called the "Shepherd Boys," which impacted many lives across the Gulf Coast region. Rev. Joiner was ordained to the Gospel Ministry by Macedonia Baptist Church in December 1997. In 1998, he obeyed the Lord’s call to plant Perfect Alternative Baptist Church in Bayou La Batre, AL. His ministry extended far beyond the pulpit, reaching into communities through food distribution, after-school programs, sickle cell awareness, and spiritual counseling. Rev. Joiner married the love of his life, Sarah Chester Joiner, while attending college. Their union of 51 years was blessed with three children: Veta Rodriguez, Claudia Matamoros, and Chefrun Joiner, Sr. Sarah was not only his beloved wife but also his ministry partner and confidante until her passing in 2016. Rev. Joiner spoke often of her with deep love and respect. After the passing of his beloved wife of 51 years, Sarah Chester Joiner, Rev. Dr. Joiner found love and companionship again. He later remarried and was united in holy matrimony to Alice Griffin, who remained by his side faithfully until he was called home to be with the Lord. Their union was a testament to God’s grace in restoring joy after sorrow, and Alice lovingly supported him in life and in ministry during his later years. A man of great faith, wisdom, and humility, Rev. Dr. Claudia Joiner lived his life with purpose, passion, and unwavering devotion to Christ. He is survived by his wife Alice, his two daughters: Veta and Claudia (Carlos), his son Chefrun (Martha), three sisters: Earnestine Williams, Mary Ann Joiner, and Cheryl Joiner; brother Kenneth Joiner; seven grandchildren: Shaunta, LaJuanna, Jarvis, Carlos III, Christian, Chefrun Jr., and Hannah; 6 great grandchildren, 7 great grandchildren: Gia, Shay, Layonnie, Lawrence Jr., Jariyah, Zion, and Ayele and the lives he touched through decades of faithful service.

Tributes

Rev. Claudia Joiner

April 23, 1946 - June 19, 2025