Joel Poinsett Porcher

Joel Poinsett Porcher, 90, of Charleston, South Carolina, entered eternal paradise with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Friday, March 21, 2025, while surrounded by his immediate family in prayer and fellowship. His Funeral Service will be held Friday, March 28, 2025, in St. James Anglican Church, 1101 Camp Rd. on James Island at 11:00 am. The family will receive friends and family on Thursday, March 27, from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm in J. Henry Stuhr Inc., West Ashley Chapel.

Joel was born on July 26, 1934, in Charleston, South Carolina, son of Edward Palmer Porcher and Julia Legare Porcher. He grew up on Mill Point Creek, at the headwaters of Clark’s Sound on James Island, at a time when living on the river was a means for subsistence living, off the bounty of the creek, rather than a symbol of status. He passed on his knowledge of saltwater life to his children and grandchildren, that will be enjoyed for generations. He was a proud graduate of Clemson University in engineering, while a letterman in diving. His love for Clemson inspired his three children and six grandchildren to also graduate from Clemson. Joel and his brother Bill founded Engineering, Surveying, and Planning, Inc. in 1977, which through mergers and acquisitions with DSAtlantic and Trico is currently Stantec, an international Architectural and Engineering firm with over 30,000 employees.

He was a member of St. James Anglican Church, having served as Senior Warden, Junior Warden, and on many committees over his lifetime as a faithful church member. He was a member of the Clemson Alumni Association, IPTAY, Block C Club, Huguenot Society, and past member of the Charleston Exchange Club.

He is survived by his wife of 69 years and best friend, Mary Clement Porcher, his brother Bill, two sons, Joel P. Porcher, Jr. (Barbara) and Edward C. Porcher (Terri); daughter, Sarah P. Norris (Bryon); 9 grandchildren, and 20 great grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to the Building Fund of St. James Anglican Church, PO Box 14456, Charleston, SC 29422 or to a charity of your choice.