Rev. Joe Flagg

Reverend Joe Nathan Flagg transitioned from Earth to Eternity on January 14, 2025. The youngest of six children, he was born on June 28, 1945, to the late Gideon Flagg and Roberta Hampton Flagg in Edwards, Mississippi. The family later relocated to St. Louis, MO where as a young child, Pastor Flagg became an active member of Bethesda Temple Church in St. Louis under the leadership of Bishop James A. Johnson. 

 Pastor Flagg was educated in the St. Louis public school system. After graduating from high school, he enlisted in the United States Army as a Paratrooper in the 101st Airborne Division. Upon receiving an honorable discharge, Pastor Flagg moved to Evansville, IN, and joined Dove Chapel Baptist Church, where he served as choir director and chairman of the Deacon Board. 

 In June 1995, Pastor Flagg united with the Liberty Missionary Baptist Church serving as vice chairman of the Deacon Board. It was during his faith walk at Liberty that he received his calling to the ministry and became an associate minister under the leadership of Pasto Todd Robertson. He also taught Vacation Bible School, new members class and served as director of Christian Education. 

Pastor Flagg retired from Bristol Myers Squibb after 32 years of service. He was a licensed sports official for the Evansville-Vanderburgh School Corporation, founder of Flagg Anglers Fishing Club, President of the I.M.A. Ministers Alliance, and treasurer of the Ministers and Deacons Alliance. He also served as 2nd and 1st Vice President, Executive Secretary, and Mt. Olive State Convention, Inc. president. He is also a National Baptist Congress of Christian Education Ministers Division graduate. At the time of his passing, Pastor Flagg was serving as pastor of Calvary Missionary Baptist Church in Henderson, KY. 

Pastor Flagg has received several awards, including the Duke of Paducah Award, the McCracken County Courts Award, and recipient of the Pastors and Preachers of Progress Award. He also received his certification to teach under the National Baptist Association. 

Pastor Flagg leaves to cherish loving memories: his wife of 30 years, Janet Willis Flagg; daughters, Arthena Thomas (John), Teisha Baker (Demetrick), and Robin Fontenot (Fronsoir); sister, Mary Griffin; goddaughter, Dr. Fenecia Smith;  godson, Christopher Clark (Monica); grandchildren; great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, and friends.