[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 3 (Wednesday, January 13, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E29]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                   IN MEMORY OF JAMES TERRELL JORDAN

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. MIKE ROSS

                              of arkansas

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 13, 2010

  Mr. ROSS. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor the memory of James 
Terrell Jordan of Monticello, Arkansas, who passed away on December 27, 
2009, at the age of 84. Having fought for freedom in World War II, 
James then committed his life to the people of Arkansas through public 
office for over five decades.
  James was born in Drew County, Arkansas, to his late parents Alvin 
and Linnie Jordan, and attended schools in Monticello and California. 
He was a member of the 101st Airborne Division in World War II, serving 
as a paratrooper and receiving a Purple Heart Medal.
  Following active duty on the frontlines, James returned to serve his 
community beginning as Drew Country treasurer in 1956. He then served 
as county judge for eight years before becoming mayor of Monticello for 
17 years. Having also given his time and energy to numerous agencies, 
councils and committees, James was awarded the ``Man of the Year'' 
award in 1985 from the Drew County Chamber of Commerce.
  James was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives in 1986 
and served for 12 years. Representing District 92, he served on the 
Committee on City, County and Local Affairs and the Committee on Public 
Transportation. His lifetime love of education led to his eventual 
appointment to the University of Arkansas Board of Visitors by Governor 
Mike Huckabee.
  I had the distinct privilege of serving with James during my time in 
the Arkansas state legislature and he was someone I respected and 
trusted for sincere advice and counsel. As an admired and respected 
public officer, James worked tirelessly to better the lives of those 
around him.
  James was well known for far more than being a member of the Greatest 
Generation who committed himself to the state he loved so much; he was 
also known to many as a good friend and role model.
  My thoughts and prayers and those of every Arkansan are with his 
wife, Bonnie; two sons, Terrell and Jerry; daughter, Cindy; his nine 
grandchildren, eight great grandchildren and the rest of his family and 
friends during this difficult time. James will be profoundly missed and 
the people of Arkansas are deeply grateful to his lifetime of exemplary 
effort and legacy of community service and leadership.

                          ____________________