Patricia "Pat" Jordan

Patricia “Pat” Jordan, 96, passed away on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at Henrico Parham Hospital, surrounded by her loving family. Pat loved telling people that she was born on April Fool’s Day, April 1, 1930. She approached life with joy, curiosity, and a positive spirit that stayed with her throughout her 96 years.

Pat was preceded in death by her husband, Robert Jordan, and her daughter, Stephanie Jordan Wall. She is survived by her children, Rebecca (Robert) Paxton and David (Amy) Jordan; her grandchildren, Daniel (Brittany) Paxton, Nicholas (Carrie) Paxton, Kate (Jack) Jordan, Spencer Jordan, Alec Wall, and George Wall; and her great-grandchildren, Andi Paxton and Nora Paxton.

After graduating from high school and attending music school, Pat moved to Idaho, where she taught piano. On her return East, she stopped in Chicago, where a friend introduced her to the University of Chicago. She went on to earn her bachelor’s degree and complete graduate coursework there. It was also at the University of Chicago that she met Robert. They married in 1960 and eventually settled in Ashland, Virginia, in 1970.

While her children went to school, Pat began working part time at Ashland’s Herald-Progress newspaper. She then returned to teaching piano, continuing for another 13 years. Pat also served as church secretary at St. James the Less Episcopal Church for 23 years before retiring. She went on to work part time at Cigna Healthcare until she was 83.

Pat was independent, endlessly curious, and always ready with a question. Her interest in the world never faded, and she met life’s challenges with determination and a positive outlook. Even as her vision diminished in her later years, she continued finding creative ways to live independently and do the things that mattered to her.

Her interests were as varied as her curiosity. Pat became an avid cyclist, a certified Master Gardener. and regularly sailed as part of a crew aboard a traditional bateau on the James River. She loved being Mimi and Nana, and she was a true virtuoso at finding treasures at Goodwill and yard sales, long before thrifting became fashionable. She enjoyed researching family genealogy and discovering the stories that connected generations. She also knew how to appreciate the quieter pleasures of life: sitting on her porch, spending time in Rodanthe and Ocracoke Island, watching the birds, and enjoying her flowerpots.

Pat brightened the world in Ashland, and Ashland brightened her life in return. Over the years, many friends and neighbors cared for her, encouraged her, and helped her continue to live life on her own terms. The affection and support she received from her community were an important part of her story. Her family is deeply grateful to the many people in Ashland who showed Pat such kindness, friendship, and care throughout the years.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for 11:00 am on Saturday, November 14, 2026, at St. James the Less Episcopal Church, 125 Beverly Road, Ashland, Virginia. Reverend John Ohmer will officiate. A reception after the service will be at Pat’s house, 103 Howard Street, Ashland, Virginia. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to the Board for the Blind and Vision Impaired, 397 Azalea Avenue, Richmond, VA 23227 or Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden at my.lewisginter.org.