Deacon Joe Nails Jr.

With faith in God’s eternal promise, we announce the transition of our beloved, Deacon Joseph “Joe” Nails Jr., He transitioned from this earthly life to eternal rest on Friday, January 23, 2026. He was surrounded by the comfort of his loved ones at home. Born on July 15, 1938, in Hinesville, GA. He was the cherished son of the late Matilda Douglas and his stepfather, Mr. Homer Douglas.

Deacon Joseph Nails was a dedicated and honorable individual whose life reflected a strong commitment to his faith. He maintained a consistent practice of reading and studying God’s word daily. His steadfast devotion could be seen through his lifestyle. He was a compassionate and humble person whose faith never wavered in God.

Deacon Joseph Nails Jr. treasured his family more than anything else. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, uncle, and cousin. His presence brought strength, comfort, and guidance to those closest to him. The love he had for his family shone through in every prayer he offered and every moment he shared with them.

Deacon Joseph was a hardworking and committed employee at Valmont Utility of Claxton, GA. He faithfully worked there with dignity and discipline for over thirty-five years. He took immense pride in his occupation, and his career reflected the same values he lived by. He retired in 2019, leaving behind a legacy of dedication, integrity, and friends. For Deacon Joseph, fishing was more than just a hobby; it was a time of reflection, tranquility, joy, and peace.

Deacon Joseph Nail Jr. was preceded in death by his mother, Mrs. Matilda Douglas, and his stepfather, Mr. Homer Douglas. Additionally, five siblings predecease him: Rose Kettle, Jeanette Floyd, Carolyn Johnson, Charles Douglas, and William Douglas; two children: Carolyn Banks and Joseph Douglas; and several special family members, including his cousin Ester Griggs and his brother-in-law, Reverend Andrew Morgan-Moore.

He is survived by his wife of more than forty years, Mamie Nails; his children: Kathy Douglass of Rochester, NY; Zachary Banks of Claxton, GA; Apostle Charlotte F. Blissit (Percy) of Urbana, IL; and Kimberley Buckner of Claxton, GA. His grandchildren include Zachary L. Banks of Statesboro, GA; Shyanna Banks (Antavious) of Claxton, GA; Jeremy Bradley-Banks of Urbana, IL; Ashley Harris (James) of Statesboro, GA; Scott Banks of Claxton, GA; Persevald Blissit Jr. (JaQuoia) of Urbana, IL; Lidareeius Banks of Claxton, GA; Joseph Banks of Claxton, GA; Patricia Douglass and Madeline Douglass of Rochester, NY. He leaves behind fifteen great-grandchildren, numerous in-laws, nieces, nephews, cousins, and special friends, Deacon Jonas Williams and Deacon John Jones, both of Claxton, GA. Special cousins Herman “Teddy” Nails of Houston, Texas and Faye Adams of Statesboro, Ga. Additionally, several brothers-in-law and sisters-in-law survive him.

Though our hearts mourn his passing, we are comforted by the promise of Scripture: “We are confident, I say, and willing rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord.” (2 Corinthians 5:8)

We take peace in knowing that Deacon Joseph Nails has completed his earthly assignment and journey. He is now resting in the loving presence of his Savior. His faith, love, and legacy will continue to live on through his family in whom he cherished so dearly as well as the many lives he touched.