SR0635 104TH GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0635 LRB104 20915 ECR 34670 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of John Henry Jordan, Ed.D, who passed away on February 15, 2026; and

WHEREAS, John Jordan was born to Ordella and Eugene Jordan in Waynesboro, Mississippi on January 17, 1943; he attended Chapel Hill Elementary School, and he graduated from Riverview High School in 1960; he received a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from Tennessee State University in 1964, a Master of Science in Elementary Education from Olivet Nazarene College in 1972, and a Doctor of Education in Adult and Continuing Education from the University of Sarasota in 1977; and

WHEREAS, John Jordan served as a teacher, a coach, an assistant principal, a businessman, a television host, an author, and a mentor to many; he was noted for executing these roles with distinction and grace, and his name became well-known throughout the communities of Waynesboro, Mississippi and Kankakee and Springfield, Illinois; and

WHEREAS, John Jordan lived a life defined by purpose, leadership, and an unwavering commitment to others; he was always attentive to opportunities to encourage, empower, and elevate those around him, and he nurtured others by always offering them wisdom and warmth; and

WHEREAS, John Jordan is survived by his wife of 33 years, Gloria Jordan; his brother, Jimmie Jordan; his children, Karla Runnells, Jan (Jess) Gathing, and Roderick Jordan; four grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, and friends; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED FOURTH GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of John Henry Jordan, Ed.D, and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of John Jordan as an expression of our deepest sympathy.