Former US President Biden Pays Tribute to Late Civil Rights Leader Reverend Joseph Darby Jr.
Washington, D.C., August 11, 2025 — Former U.S. President Joe Biden has paid a moving tribute to Reverend Joseph Darby Jr., a widely respected pastor, community advocate, and stalwart of the civil rights movement in South Carolina.
In his statement, Biden described Reverend Darby as someone who “advocated for the people of South Carolina with his heart and soul” and who lived by the deeply held belief that all individuals are created equal and deserve to be treated equally throughout their lives.
Reverend Darby, who dedicated decades of his life to ministry and activism, was recognized for uniting communities, championing social justice, and giving a voice to the marginalized. Biden noted that the pastor’s remarkable career was marked by “integrity, humility, and determination,” and that his work had directly improved countless lives.
“I will always cherish the years of friendship we shared,” Biden said. “Jill and I are keeping his family and all those who knew and loved him in our prayers. May God bless Reverend Darby.”
Throughout his service, Reverend Darby held leadership roles in church and civic organizations, frequently addressing issues such as racial inequality, education access, and voter rights. He was known for his fearless advocacy and his ability to bridge divides while standing firm on principles of justice and equality.
Community members remember him not only as a spiritual leader but as a driving force for change who never hesitated to confront injustice. His life’s work leaves behind a powerful legacy that continues to inspire both his local community and the wider nation.
As tributes pour in from across the country, Reverend Darby’s passing marks the loss of a true servant leader whose influence will endure for generations to come.
