Clarence Stokes, Jr.

Apostle Clarence Stokes Jr. was born on March 29, 1963, to the union of the late Clarence and Lillie Pearl Stokes in Detroit, Michigan. He was affectionately known as CJ by his family and friends. On April 12, 2022, God called his good and faithful servant to his reward and rest.

Apostle CJ was educated in the Detroit Public School System.  In pursuit of a better life, he joined the US Marine Corps. In 1989, while still on active duty, he committed his life to Christ. He was an exemplary Staff Sergeant. He loved training the new recruits. Clarence was passionate about turning boys into men. A patriot in the truest sense.  He was a lead foreman at Wayne Automatic. Even in his secular vocational duties, he understood it to be his mission field. No matter what he endeavored, he always excelled.

Clarence obtained a bachelor's degree at Jacksonville Theological Seminary and Carolina Bible College. He established Tree of Life Community Church in Beaufort, SC, and later founded Kingdom Purpose Ministries in Concord, North Carolina. He served the broader community faithfully and passionately through various outreach. He would often say “you can’t just preach from the pulpit.” His core belief was that our faith has to be walked out.

At the tender age of 16, he met the love of his life, Kimberly Rex. A few short years later, the two wed on February 8, 1986.  From this blessed union, Cedric and Keyonna were born. Being a genuine lover of people, he never met a stranger. For CJ the act of giving was second nature. Anyone that has been in his presence can attest that his laughter was contagious and his humor lit up a room. Above all else, he cherished his family.

Apostle CJ is survived by: his beloved wife: Kimberly Stokes; his daughters: Latrese Wells and Keyonna Stokes; son: Cedric Stokes; Grandson: Jamarr Stokes; Mother in love: Rudy Rex; Siblings: Ervin Mayer (Margaret); Deborah Stokes; Audrey Bailey; Andrea (Jeffery) Higgins; Patricia (Gary) Williams; Sister in love: Khesha Rex; Brother in love: Orondae Rex; Godchildren: Reagan and David Scott; Best friends Jock and Tammie Rozario. And a host of nieces, nephews, relatives and friends.

Hartsell Funeral Home of Concord is serving the Stokes family.

Online condolences may be made at www.hartsellfh.com