Dorothy May Joiner

Mrs. Dorothy May Joiner

March 28, 1929 – June 2, 2026

"Well done, good and faithful servant." — Matthew 25:23

With hearts full of love and gratitude for a life well-lived, we celebrate the beautiful legacy of Mrs. Dorothy May Joiner, who peacefully entered eternal rest and went home to be with the Lord on Tuesday, June 2, 2026, at the Linda E. White Hospice House in Evansville, Indiana. She was 97 years old.

Dorothy May Joiner was born on March 28, 1929, in Oxford, Mississippi, to the late Andrew and Gertrude Chatman. Raised in a loving family and grounded in faith from an early age, Dorothy attended school in Oxford and accepted Christ as her Savior during her youth. She united with New Hope Missionary Baptist Church in Mississippi, where she faithfully worshipped under the leadership of the late Reverend Wilma Houston.

Dorothy's life was a testament to unwavering faith, devotion to family, and service to others. She was united in holy matrimony to the love of her life, Alex Joiner, and together they shared 58 wonderful years of marriage. Their union was blessed with eight children, whom she nurtured with love, wisdom, and strength.

She leaves to cherish her precious memories, her sister, Lucille Luster, and her children: Nettie Rucker, Nellie Johnson, Carolyn McNary (Ardell Jr.), Alex Joiner Jr. (Connie), Larry Joiner, James Joiner (Bridget), and Ricky Joiner (Debra). She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Alex Joiner, son, Scottie Joiner(Iris), and son-in-law, Jessie Rucker. Dorothy also leaves behind a treasured legacy through her many grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great-grandchildren, all of whom brought her immense joy and pride.

In 1951, Dorothy relocated to Evansville, Indiana, where she would build a life rooted in faith, family, and community. In 1952, she joined Mt. Olive Galilee Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Reverend Johnny Jones. There, she faithfully served for many decades, touching countless lives through her dedication and leadership. She served as President of the Senior Mission until 2009, and was also a devoted Vice President of the Mother's Board and member of the Golden Voices Choir. Her commitment to ministry and service reflected her deep love for God and His people.

Never one to stop growing in her faith, Dorothy continued her spiritual journey and, in January 2015, transferred her membership to Mt. Pleasant Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Reverend Robert L. Saunders Jr. There, she continued to worship and serve the Lord with the same passion and devotion that defined her entire life.

Beyond her love for the Lord and her family, Dorothy found joy in life's simple blessings. She loved making music and praising God through song, often playing her guitar and tambourine with enthusiasm and joy. She also had a special love for gardening. Whether surrounded by family, serving in her church, making music, or working in her garden, Dorothy's warmth and gentle spirit shined brightly.

Dorothy will be remembered for her steadfast faith, compassionate heart, warm smile, and unconditional love for her family. She was a praying mother, a faithful church servant, a trusted friend, and a pillar of strength to all who knew her. Her wisdom, kindness, grace, and joyful spirit left an indelible mark on generations.

Though her earthly journey has ended, the seeds of faith, love, and perseverance she planted throughout her life will continue to flourish in the hearts of those she leaves behind.

Her family rejoices in knowing that she has heard the words she longed for all her life:

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant; enter into the joy of thy Lord."

Mrs. Dorothy May Joiner's memory will forever be cherished, and her legacy of faith, love, service, music, and family devotion will continue to inspire all who were blessed to know and love her.

Lovingly Submitted,The Family of Mrs. Dorothy May Joiner ❤️