January 17, 1956 – July 22, 2026
It is with profound sorrow and heavy hearts that the Dickson, Marke, Johnson, and Joshua families announce the untimely passing of their beloved husband, father, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin, and friend, Rev. Dr. Ernest Bamba Marke, affectionately known as “Joko.”
Rev. Dr. Marke peacefully transitioned to eternal rest on Wednesday, July 22, 2026, at Penn Medicine Hospital in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, following a brief illness. He was surrounded by his loving family during his final moments.
Born on January 17, 1956, in Lower Buchanan, Grand Bassa County, Liberia, Joko was the beloved son of the late Mr. Emmanuel Marke and Mrs. Irene Johnson Marke.
He leaves to cherish his precious memory his devoted wife, Rev. Maretta Y. Marke; his son, Joko Jr.; his daughter, Tonia Marke; his sisters, Prolander Teete Joshua and Tracy Handful Henshaw (Eric Henshaw, Sr.); and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, relatives, and friends in the United States, Canada, and Liberia. He was preceded in death by his brother, Apha Marke.
The family humbly asks for your continued prayers, love, and support during this difficult time.
Homegoing Memorial Celebration Service
Saturday, August 15, 2026 11:00 a.m.
United Christian Assembly Church 232 East Front Street
Florence, NJ 08518
For additional information, please contact:
● Prolander “Teete” Joshua – (609) 481-9603
● Tracy Handful Henshaw (Eric Henshaw, Sr.) – (609) 880-3324
● Grace “Chuchu” Eastman – (703) 855-9627
● Anna Johnson – (609) 556-0199
● Rev. Milton D. Joshua – (718) 938-3469
● Tonia Marke (Liberia)
Forever loved, deeply missed, and never forgotten. May Rev. Dr. Ernest Bamba Marke’s soul continue to rest in perfect peace.
