Junior Thomas Jordan, 83, of Bolivar, Tennessee, passed away on Friday, July 24, 2026, after a courageous battle with leukemia.
Born on July 4, 1943, in Madison County, Tennessee, Junior was the son of the late James Thomas Jordan and Mary Lee Jenkins Jordan. He worked at Harman Automotive as an industrial electrician for 34 years before retiring. He made many friendships there that would make a lasting impact on his life.
Junior believed in doing things with purpose and intention. His tools were always in order, and if he didn’t have the one he needed, he’d head to his welder and make it himself. His garden was carefully planned, with his watermelon patch as his pride and joy. Every project was thoughtfully mapped out before it began and once he found a method he trusted, he stuck with it. If Junior did something, you could be certain it had been considered from every angle.
Though quiet and reserved by nature, Junior’s smile and laughter carried a joy that filled the room. He loved telling stories, especially those filled with slapstick humor. He also had a gift for nicknames, handing them out generously to family and friends. Names like Thumper, Bruiser, Jarhead, Buddy Jug, Hog Pen, Handle Bars, Sun Spot, Big Boy and Rugrat became lasting reminders of the affection he expressed in his own unique way.
In his younger years, Junior enjoyed souping up Volkswagens, pulling pranks, fishing, and spending time on the river. But he also possessed a quiet strength and determination that carried him through life’s challenges. He rarely gave up easily, meeting every obstacle with the same stubborn resilience that defined his character.
Junior married Laura Louise Vaughan in 1963, and together they raised three children and welcomed eight grandchildren and five great grandchildren. True to form, he didn’t stop at making his own tools. He built his own grills as well, and they were put to good use at the many holidays, cookouts and family gatherings he and Laura hosted.
To his grandchildren, he was simply BawBaw. Whenever they begged to spend the night, he was always in cahoots with them. If no extra clothes had been packed, he’d simply say, “They can wear one of my shirts.” He was just as likely to hop on one of their bicycles and pedal away laughing as he was to bush-hog trails through the fields so there’d be new paths to explore. It was through simple acts like these that he created memories his family will always cherish.
On April 08, 2006, Junior married Bettie Wharton. They shared a life together in Toone, Tennessee. Junior enjoyed keeping their yard in pristine condition with their garden rows tidy, always leaving a place for planting flowers for Bettie.They enjoyed fishing together, camping with friends, going to bluegrass shows, and walking with their dog (Dixie). And time and time again they enjoyed watching the wildlife out of their kitchen window. Junior enjoyed attending church and he worshiped faithfully for many years. He was baptized on November 26, 2023 at Bolivar First Methodist Church where he worshiped until God called him home.
He is survived by his wife, Bettie Jordan; his children, Michael Jordan (Resa), Teresa Langlinais (Larry), and LeAnn Hunt (Bart). As well as his step children Sharon Brummer (Gary), Bill Maness (Rhonda), Holly Ulmer (Grant). Together, they have fourteen grandchildren and fourteen great grandchildren. He leaves behind his beloved dog, Dixie, who never left his side. In addition to his parents and first wife, he was preceded in death by his brother, Bobby Ralph Jordan.
Junior will be remembered for his strong work ethic, unwavering determination and unmistakable sense of humor. More than anything, he will be remembered as a devoted husband, father, BawBaw, great-grandfather, brother and friend. His steady presence, quiet love and the memories he created will remain with those who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
