Barbara J. Jordan

I endured a long, 4-year battle with cancer and on November 18, 2020, I was freed from a body that no longer served me. Upon reflection, I was frustrated that cancer high jacked my health but grateful that it did not steal my life. I want all of you reading this to be at peace. Rest assured, I am finally at peace. My sister and best friend Christine was by my side during my final moments. My siblings Shirley, Linda, Jennifer, and Carl visited me often. I was never alone. Please know that I was comforted by what I call visions of those whom I love and departed before me; my mother Annie Mae Floyd, husband Kelvin Jordan, and my sister Brenda Faye Floyd. In preparation of this transition, I accepted Christ at the age of 8. I was ready. Rejoice in the fact that my time on earth was well spent, not defined solely by the suffering of my final chapter. Remember me for living large.

My grand adventure began on September 15, 1949 in Brooklyn New York. Annie Mae Floyd and Charlie Lee Floyd were my parents. At the age of 2, I moved to my childhood home in LaFayette, Alabama and at the age of 13 moved to Atlanta living a fruitful 58 years. I was educated in the Atlanta Public Schools System and worked professionally in Federal Civil Service. After 13+ years with the Federal Government, I was able to walk away, follow my dreams, work full time as a Realtor, and in various business endeavors. I had the support of my husband Kelvin. I worked to support the development and growth of new communities. I named several subdivisions, streets, and schools for the builders I worked for. Regardless of the time I put in, it never felt like work because I enjoyed my life’s calling and was blessed to meet so many people. With Kelvin, I was able to reach the pinnacle of my professional Real Estate career.

I want to credit my sister Shirley for taking care of me. I had big plans, and wanted to do more. I exercised a mindset and faith, but I could not change the trajectory of my health. In my frustration, I acted out. I may have even tested you sometimes, but you responded by returning my distress with a selfless love and tireless work. Let me address you and your family personally. Thank you Shirley, Darryl, and Quyvonne. I did not say that enough when I should have. To my sister Christine, my best friend and partner in crime. You gave me a reprieve during stressful times in my life and reminded me to have fun. I want my sisters Linda, Jennifer, and Bertha to know that I am proud of their outstanding job organizing and hosting our grand family dinners. I looked forward to the times we spent together. Oh how we laughed, danced, shared funny stories, ate and enjoyed each other’s company. To my brother Carl, nieces, nephews, and brothers-in-love thank you for coming to my aid when I needed support.

I smile when I see glimpses of my personality, curiosity, ambition, and dimples in my children, Audra, Alicia, Carlos, Carnell and Joshua. My grandchildren Tiffani, Justin Destiny, Alexia and Alex are my secret sources of joy. I have enjoyed watching them grow up and figure-out life on their terms. I didn’t like people telling me what to do either so they got it honest! Their accomplishments are my greatest sources of pride. I love the people they have become. I love my sons-in-love Jeffrey and Warren, and my daughters-in-love, Crystal and Valencia. I prayed for them long before my children were married, and God exceeded my expectations. I have been privileged to witness all my kids thrive in their marriages. My ultimate desire is that my newest great grandbaby Autumn and those yet to come who may not have memories of me will know me through my legacy of love.