Gerard "Jordy" Jay Tollett

Gerard Jay “Jordy” Tollett, 73, of Houston, Texas, passed away on August 3, 2025, surrounded by his loved ones. Born on May 15, 1952, in Galveston, Texas, to Margaret Almeda Tollett and Horace James Tollett, Sr.

He is survived by his wife, Yang Tollett; daughters, Amanda Tollett, Madison Rios Palus (Alex); grandchildren, Kenneth Gerard and Kylee Rios Palus; and his siblings: H.J. Tollett (JoAnn), Wayne Tollett, Douglas Tollett (Brenda), Mary Adair (David), Jesse Tollett (Linda), Patrick Tollett (Rosemary), and Marie Costello (Richard). He is also survived by many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents, Horace and Margaret, and his brothers, Robert Tollett and Lee Tollett.

Jordy grew up in the Houston-Galveston area as one of ten siblings. He attended Mt. Carmel High School, where he proudly served as a cheerleader, graduating in 1970.

His distinguished career in the hospitality and entertainment industry began in 1973 at the Astrodomain complex. His extraordinary work ethic and charisma caught the attention of Judge Roy Hofheinz, setting the stage for a swift and impactful rise.

In 1981, Jordy was appointed Director of the City of Houston’s Convention & Entertainment Facilities Department. Under his leadership, the city celebrated the opening of the George R. Brown Convention Center and the Wortham Theater in 1987 and contributed to the continued success of Jones Hall.

In 1998, Jordy became the President and CEO of the Greater Houston Convention and Visitors Bureau (GHCVB). He also served as Mayor Lee Brown's Chief of Staff for a period of time while maintaining his GHCVB role.

Known by many as "Mr. Downtown," Jordy was a key figure in major projects like the Hilton Americas-Houston and securing the 2004 Super Bowl. He retired in 2006, leaving a legacy on the city of Houston’s landscape.

From 2010 to 2017, Jordy served as the Director of Pasadena Convention Center and Municipal Fairgrounds in Pasadena, Texas.

Jordy cherished time with family and friends. He was a proud girl dad who loved the color pink, Diet Coke, Frito pie, colorful shoes, Houston sports, traveling, and music. A longtime motorcycle and boating enthusiast, he later traded his Harley for a bicycle, enjoying long rides with his beloved wife, Yang. Above all, he found immense joy in being "Pappa Jordy" to his grandchildren.

Jordy had an extraordinary gift for connecting with people from all walks of life. His larger-than-life personality, infectious smile, and signature dimples made everyone feel seen and valued. He was a natural storyteller and someone who always knew how to find the fun in any moment. His friendships spanned decades, and he was fiercely loyal to those he loved. He will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A celebration of Jordy’s life will take place at the Wortham Theater located at 501 Texas Avenue Houston TX 77002 on Saturday, September 6, at 10:00 a.m.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Children's Museum Houston, 1500 Binz Street, Houston, TX 77004 https://cmh.ticketapp.org/portal/product/46