Wilma Annette Penley Jordan, age 87, of Clover, SC, passed away on April 2, 2026, at Testa Family Hospice House in Kings Mountain, NC.
Wilma was born in Gaston County on October 2, 1938, to the late Fred and Ida belle Penley. In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband of 45 years, Kenneth Jordan Sr.; her sisters, Helen McClure, Laura Ellen Parker, and Evelyn Queen; and her brother, Gilbert Penley.
Wilma managed to raise five children while building a long and dedicated career as a surgical technician. She began her career at Garrison General Hospital and later continued her service at Gaston Memorial Hospital, where she retired after nearly 25 years in the field. Her commitment to caring for others—both at home and in the operating room—was a defining part of her life. She was a loving wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother whose greatest joy came from the family she nurtured and supported. Wilma loved both the beach and the mountains, finding peace in the sound of the waves and comfort in the quiet beauty of the hills. She loved to dance, and those who knew her will remember the light in her eyes whenever music filled the room. At home, she shared a special bond with her beloved cat, TGirl, who was her constant companion.
Wilma is survived by her children, Debbie Herndon (Robert Hall), Roxie Lawson (Nathaniel), Kimberly Jordan, Kenneth Ray Jordan Jr. (Hope), and David Edward Jordan; her daughter in law, Mandy Jordan; and her sister, Bertha Cantrelle (Alvin). She was blessed with a large and loving family, including her grandchildren, Karen Premo (Keith), Brian Riddle (Nicole), Kelly Beard (Justin), Rebecca Nelson (Nate), Micheal Riddle (Ashley), Rosetta Nocher (Jakob), and Raymond Scott Jordan; as well as fifteen great grandchildren who brought her endless joy. Each of them carries a piece of her spirit forward in their lives.
A graveside service will take place on Friday, April 10, 2026, at 4:00 PM at Gaston Memorial Park (Garden of Time), 1200 S. New Hope Rd., Gastonia, NC 28054. Family and friends are invited to gather in remembrance, share stories, and celebrate the life of a woman whose love, strength, and gentle spirit will be deeply missed.
In lieu of flowers, please consider planting a tree to help replenish National Forests in need. This simple act of renewal reflects Wilma’s love for nature and offers a living tribute that will continue to grow in her memory.
