News Summary
Reverend Joseph Darby Jr., a key figure in South Carolina’s civil rights movement, has died at 74. A dedicated leader and advocate for social justice, he left a lasting impact through his various roles in the NAACP and AME Church. His contributions to community empowerment and education are honored, alongside tributes from fellow leaders and family.
Columbia, SC – Reverend Joseph Darby Jr., a prominent civil rights activist and community leader in South Carolina, passed away at the age of 74, one day after celebrating his birthday. Known for his dedication to social justice and community empowerment, Darby played a crucial role in the civil rights movement, both locally and statewide.
Reverend Darby served as the First Vice-President of the Charleston Branch of the NAACP and was formerly the First Vice President of the South Carolina NAACP. His leadership extended beyond his roles in the NAACP, as he dedicated 48 years to serving as a pastor in several African Methodist Episcopal Churches. His ministry included positions at Piney Grove AME in Gaston, Pleasant Spring AME and Pine Grove AME in Columbia, St. Philip AME in Eastover, and Morris Brown AME along with Nichols Chapel AME in Charleston, where he most recently served.
In addition to his pastoral responsibilities, Darby held several significant roles within the AME Church, demonstrating a commitment to both faith and community service. He was the presiding elder of the Beaufort District and contributed as the chairman of the Episcopal District Board of Trustees, the coordinator of the Seventh Episcopal District Sons of Allen Men’s Fellowship, and the registrar for the Palmetto Annual Conference Board of Ministerial Training. He also served as the editor of the church’s magazine, The Advocate, and led initiatives such as the Charleston P.A.S.T.O.R.S. Housing Initiative and the South Carolina Coalition of Black Church Leaders.
Reverend Darby’s contributions to the community earned him numerous accolades. Notable awards include the Top Achiever Award from the 1993 South Carolina Black Male Showcase and recognition as one of South Carolina’s 25 Most Influential African Americans by South Carolina Business Vision in 1997. His leadership in civil rights was acknowledged when he received the 1999 NAACP Southeast Region Medgar W. Evers Leadership Award and his induction into the South Carolina Black Hall of Fame in 2002.
Beyond his work in the church, Darby was engaged in educational leadership, participating in organizations focused on improving opportunities for African American students. He was a member of the State Superintendent of Education’s African-American Achievement Committee and the Racial/Cultural Advisory Council of the South Carolina School Boards Association. He also served on the Board of Directors of the Daniel J. Jenkins Institute for Children, indicating a lifelong commitment to youth and educational advocacy.
Reverend Darby was a notable survivor of colorectal cancer for 15 years, using his experience to advocate for cancer screenings, encouraging those with family histories or symptoms to seek medical attention promptly. His influence extended into his family life, where he is remembered by his two sons, Jason and Jeremy, and several grandchildren. Jason shared an emotional message expressing gratitude for the love and impact his father had on the community.
Congressman Jim Clyburn offered condolences, highlighting Darby’s extraordinary leadership abilities and dedication to uplifting others. In the wake of his passing, the family has expressed appreciation for the support they have received and will announce a celebration of his life in the near future, honoring his contributions and legacy.
Reverend Joseph Darby Jr.’s passing marks a significant loss for South Carolina’s civil rights community and the many lives he touched throughout his dedicated service. He leaves behind a legacy of advocacy and empowerment that will undoubtedly inspire future generations.
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Additional Resources
- WLTX
- Wikipedia: Civil Rights Movement
- WRDW
- Google Search: Joseph Darby South Carolina
- ABC Columbia
- Google Scholar: Joseph Darby
- WACH
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Civil Rights
- Post and Courier
- Google News: Joseph Darby
Author: STAFF HERE BEAUFORT
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