James Louis Joiner, Sr.

James Louis Joiner, Sr., of Gloucester City, affectionately known as “Jim” to his family and friends, peacefully passed away on October 8, 2026, in the comfort of his home, surrounded by the love of his family and with his beloved wife, Carole, by his side.
Born on April 8, 1930, he was the son of the late Thomas J. and Hannah (nee Gledhill) Joiner. Jim was a longtime resident of Camden and Audubon Park before making his home in Gloucester City, where he became a respected and dedicated member of the community.
After graduating from high school, Jim answered the call to serve his country by enlisting in the United States Army. This marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to service. He proudly served during the closing years of the Korean War and, following his honorable discharge, reenlisted in the United States Army Reserve, continuing his service to his country with great pride and distinction.
Upon returning home from active military service, Jim began his professional career with RCA in the Finance Department. As the company evolved, he continued his career with General Electric, from which he eventually retired. Throughout his life, Jim remained deeply proud of his military service and his role as an American patriot.
Jim's commitment to service extended well beyond the military. He was deeply involved in Gloucester City government and civic affairs, serving on the Zoning Board, as Chairman of the Sewer Authority, and as President of Gloucester City Council from 1968 to 1969. He was also instrumental in the planning and celebration of Gloucester City's 100th Anniversary events. He believed strongly in his community and was never afraid to stand up for what he believed was right.
A man of strong principles, convictions, and morals, Jim had a genuine passion for fighting for a just cause. He was respected for his honesty, straightforward nature, and willingness to speak his mind. You always knew where you stood with Jim—and while he never believed in sugarcoating his opinions, there was always love and sincerity behind his words. His grandchildren, however, were often the lucky exception to that rule.
Jim was also a proud Irishman who cherished his heritage. He enjoyed camping, deep-sea fishing, reading crime and spy novels, watching country western shows and traveling abroad with his beloved wife, Carole. Yet, of all the titles he held throughout his remarkable life—soldier, patriot, public servant, husband, and father—perhaps none meant more to him than “G-Pop” and “Pop.” He took tremendous pride in his grandchildren and especially treasured the years he spent watching them grow, being present for their lives, and later enjoying them as adults.
Jim will be remembered as a proud American, a devoted public servant, a proud Irishman, a loving husband and father, and a dear Pop whose strength, convictions, humor, and unmistakable personality left a lasting impression on all who knew him.
He was the beloved husband of 46 years to Carole (nee Stefanowicz) Joiner. Loving father of Debra (the late Joseph) Speiser, Jaime (the late Charles) Matthews, Darlene (Chris) Shinn, Daniel (Lisa) Morrison, and John (Joe Gaschnig) Joiner, and the late James L. Joiner, Jr. and Joseph F. Joiner. He was the proud and devoted Pop of 13 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
Jim was preceded in death by his siblings, Thomas J. Joiner, Jr. and Patricia Ann Webb.
He was the brother-in-law of Joan Bessing, Anthony Stefanowicz, Ellen Goetchius, and the late Lorraine Stiles and Christine Stefanowicz. He will also be sadly missed by his many nieces, nephews, dear friends, and the countless members of the Gloucester City community whose lives he touched through his years of service.
Military Honors
Relatives and friends are invited to gather on Monday afternoon, October 26, 2026, at 1:00 PM at Beverly National Cemetery, 916 Bridgeboro Road, Beverly, NJ 08010, where Graveside Services and Military Honors will be held in recognition of Jim's honorable service to his country.
In lieu of flowers, memorial donations in Jim's memory may be made to PA Wounded Warriors, Inc., 1117 Country Club Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011.
A proud patriot, a dedicated public servant, a proud Irishman, and a beloved Pop—Jim lived a life of service, conviction, and love. His legacy will live on in the family he cherished and the community he proudly served.