Richard "Rich" L. Jordan

Born on January 2, 1947, in Peoria, IL, Rich was the son of Cecil and Betty (Coulter) Jordan. Rich dedicated his life to serving his community. He graduated from Manual High School and later attended Illinois Central College. On September 26, 1969, he began his career with the City of Peoria Police Department, serving with distinction for 32 years. He was promoted to Sergeant on January 23, 1983, and later to Lieutenant on March 1, 1995. He retired on October 19, 2001, after a remarkable career that included roles in the Detective Bureau, Patrol Sergeant, and Traffic Lieutenant. Throughout his service, Rich had many memorable experiences, including serving as a security officer for Richard Pryor during the filming of Jo Jo Dancer, Your Life is Calling in Peoria (1986). He was also one of the first officers to respond when three armed individuals took a classroom of 5th graders hostage at St. Cecilia School (1973). In 1977, he was injured in the line of duty alongside three firefighters when a firetruck exploded, spending three months in the hospital recovering. In addition to his full-time career, Rich worked security at the Pere Marquette, where he enjoyed providing security for numerous artists performing at the Peoria Civic Center. In 1998, he participated in the University of Illinois Police Exchange Program in London, England. He also served as a School Resource Officer (SRO) at East Peoria High School. Rich was a proud member of the American Legion in Bartonville, the Elks Club in Peoria, and the Timberlake Country Club in Peoria. He was a lifelong fan of the Atlanta Braves, Chicago Bears, and Bradley Braves, holding season tickets for Bradley basketball. He also enjoyed coaching JFL and basketball in his earlier years.

Rich married Marsha Hall, on June 12, 1999. Together, they shared a passion for travel, taking cruises and making yearly trips to Destin, FL. He is survived by his beloved wife, Marsha Jordan; his children Denise (Pat) Dougherty of Peoria, Jimmy (Carrie) Jordan of Farmington, Brian (Wendy Downing) Jordan of Tinley Park, John Hall of Peoria, and Jason Hall of Pekin; and his cherished grandchildren Tyler Dougherty, Jennica Hall, Elliott Black, Penny Black, Isaac Jordan, and James Jordan. He is also survived by his sister, Diane Smith of Marquette Heights, and his best friend, Jim Meeks of Peoria.

Rich was preceded in death by his parents, his in-laws Mike and Marge Michel, his baby brother, and several aunts and uncles.

Rich found his greatest joy in watching his grandchildren grow and supporting them in school and sports. He especially loved watching his sons coach, cheering on their teams with pride. His legacy of service, love, and dedication will live on through the many lives he touched.

The family would like to thank the staff at the Richard L. Owens Hospice Home for their care and compassion for Rich.

Visitation will be Thursday, February 27, 2025 from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Davison-Fulton Woodland Chapel. Funeral services will be Friday, February 28, 2025 at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

Entombment will be in Chapel of Peace Mausoleum in Parkview Cemetery.

In Lieu of Flowers Donations can be made to OSF Richard Owens Hospice Home or the Peoria Police Department “Kirk Edwards Foundation” in his memory.

You may view Rich’s obituary online at www.Davison-Fulton.com