Rev. Joe Clifton Cranford, 99, was born on April 26, 1923 in Stephens, AR to his parents Willie and Iver Cranford. He transitioned from this life on March 08, 2023 at Ouachita County Medical Center in Camden, AR.

Rev. Joe Cranford was a dedicated member of Good Hope Baptist Church where he served as Assistant Minister under the leadership of Pastor Bruce Porchia.  For many years he also served as Superintendent of Sunday school. Most importantly, he was a good and faithful servant of God.  Those who had the blessing of knowing Rev. Cranford knows his humble and loving spirit.  Most would agree that he was simply a good man and he was the same all of the time. He loved the Lord, family, and church family.

At an early age Rev. Cranford had to quit school (8th grade) to work as a farmer and woodworker to support his family.  Later in age he earned his high school diploma which he was proud of his accomplishment.  He worked many, many jobs throughout his life.  He worked many years for Ford and Chrysler in Detroit, MI.  He was also a business owner.  He worked and retired from Fidelity National Bank in Birmingham, MI where he was the first African American employee.  During his career at the bank he worked in security as well as armored guard transporting funds to nine branches around the Detroit Metro area.

In 1942 Rev. Cranford joined in matrimony to the late Catherine Cranford who preceded him in death in 2003.  During this union three children were born; daughter Myrtistean Taylor, sons Stanley Cranford, and J.C. Cranford all preceded him in death. He also had five siblings who preceded him in death, Hazel Cranford, Terry Cranford, Willie Cranford Jr., Elrena Hughes, and Billie Harris.

Rev. Joe Cranford leaves to cherish his loving wife, Juanita Cranford. His sister Zenobia Thompson of Camden, AR. Three grandchildren Joyce Washington of Novi, Mi, Catherine Lynne Thomsen of Denmark, and Pastor Rickey Cranford of Detroit, MI. nine great-grandchildren and five great-great grandchildren.  Also a host of nieces, nephews.

Funeral will be 2:00PM Saturday, March 18, 2023 at Good Hope Baptist Church.  Visitation will be 5:00PM – 7:00PM Friday at the funeral home.