Barbara Jordan

Barbara Jackson Jordan, 88, of Elm City, passed away on February 20, 2025.

A graveside service will be held on Saturday, March 1, at 11:00 AM at Cedar Grove Cemetery, Elm City.

Barbara, a near lifelong resident of Elm City, was a devoted educator, businesswoman, and public servant. She dedicated much of her life to education, teaching English at Southern Nash Junior High School and later at Southern Nash High School. She had a remarkable ability to connect with students who had been overlooked or written off by others, inspiring them to believe in themselves and succeed.

Beyond the classroom and business world, Barbara was deeply involved in her community, serving for many years as a councilwoman on the Elm City town board. She was known for her boldness, her honesty, and her unwavering commitment to standing up for what she believed was right. She spoke her mind fearlessly, even when it was unpopular, and many residents expressed their gratitude for her advocacy on their behalf. Her presence at town meetings was so impactful that some people admitted to reading the local newspaper just to follow the latest discussions she sparked. She treated everyone with fairness and respect, even when they disagreed, and always sought to do what was right.

Barbara also had a lifelong love for animals, especially dogs, cats, and horses. She had a compassionate heart for all creatures and found comfort and companionship in the animals she loved throughout her life. But her kindness extended far beyond animals, and she often cared for people in need, taking great pleasure in servitude.

Her faith in Jesus was the foundation of her life. She loved reading her Bible and found strength, wisdom, and comfort in God’s word. She lived out her faith with a generous heart, always seeking to help others and do what was right.

Above all, Barbara’s greatest love was her family. She cherished her daughter, Kim, and son-in-law, Rob, and took immense pride in her granddaughters, Analis (Jake) and Abigail. Nothing brought her more joy than being their Mama and Grandmama, and she never missed an opportunity to express her love and support for them. She adored spending time with her family, celebrating their accomplishments, and offering her wisdom and encouragement.

Barbara was preceded in death by her parents, George Grady Jackson and Thelma Thorne Jackson, and her brother, George G. “Buster” Jackson, Jr.

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to an animal charity or another charity of one’s choice.

Arrangements by Wilson Memorial Service, 2811 Fieldstream Dr N, Wilson, (252) 237-7171, www.wilsonmemorialservice.com