Duane Reye Jordan

Published 8:00 am Friday, August 11, 2023

Duane was born May 31, 1944, as the fourth of five children to Albert and Mary Jordan in Bogalusa, LA. After graduating from Central Memorial High School (1961), he went on to attain a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Southern University and A&M College (1965) in Baton Rouge, LA and, later, furthered his education at the University of La Verne in La Verne, CA.

After college, Duane worked as an educator at Rosenwald High School, Lawless Senior High School, and McDonough 35 High School. He also served in a professional capacity with Rockwell International and Goodyear Tire and Rubber Company. In 2021, after 33 years as Owner and Agent, Duane retired from Allstate Insurance Company.

Duane was very involved in his community. He served many organizations in various leadership roles, including the Beta Lambda Omega Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated, Baker Rotary Club, Baker Chamber of Commerce, Allstate Political Awareness Team, Hardwood Club, Southern University Alumni Association, City of Baker Economic Development Council, Lake Pointe Homeowners Association, and Southern University Alumni Home Chapter. He proudly served as Youth Mentor and Treasurer of Jordan United Methodist Church.

Besides spending time with his family and friends, Duane enjoyed traveling, fishing, horse racing, watching the New Orleans Saints, and supporting the Southern University Jaguars in their various sports and campus events. Duane had a bright and energetic personality. He touched so many lives with his generosity and passion for life.

Duane was predeceased by his father Albert L. Jordan, his mother Mary Jordan, his sister Constance Jordan, and his older brothers Alvin and Don Jordan. He is survived by his loving wife Patricia Jordan; children Dione Renae Sibley, Ayxa Jordan, Aesha Jordan Wilson (Clay), Bilal Jordan (Parisa), and Beverlee Barnwell (Odell III); grandchildren Marc, Sydney, Omari, Isaiah, Joshua, Kerrington, Odell IV, and Royah; his youngest brother Lawrence Jordan (Marsha); one Goddaughter Ailah Y. Martin; and a host of nieces and nephews. Through marriage, Duane gained two sons Byron Hardesty and Tory Hardesy (Melanie); eight grandchildren Mya, JaTory, Darian, Trevor, Jacob, James, Michael, and Erin; and six great-grandchildren. Duane was a loving husband, father, brother, uncle, and community leader. He will be greatly missed by a host of family and friends.

There will be a public viewing on Friday, August 11, 2023, from 4:00 PM-6:00 PM at Hall Davis and Sons Funeral Services (9348 Scenic Hwy; Baton Rouge, LA 70807). A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, August 12, 2023, at Hall Davis and Sons Funeral Services at 10:00 AM with an Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc Omega Service at 9:00 AM.