The Rev. E. Claiborne Jones, a trailblazer in The Episcopal Church, was the first woman to serve as rector in the Deep South. Ordained as a deacon in 1978 and as a priest in 1979, she brought visionary leadership to Epiphany Episcopal Church in Atlanta, where she served as rector for 19½ years.

Claiborne’s extensive contributions include her role as Vicar of Emmaus House from 2005 to 2014, and her leadership in various diocesan roles, including Chair of the Diocesan Council Commission and President of the Standing Committee. She also served as a Deputy to five General Conventions and was a key member of the Presiding Bishop Nominating Committee.

Beyond her ecclesiastical work, Claiborne was involved with Leadership Atlanta, served on the Board of Planned Parenthood Southeast, and represented pro-choice Christian views on CNN. Her ministry has been marked by a commitment to unity and transformative vision, and she has been a loving caretaker of numerous beloved companions along her journey.

The Rev. E. Claiborne Jones’s legacy is a testament to pioneering leadership and profound faith.