Vera Benesby Jordan
December 13, 1971 – June 6, 2026
FRIDAY, JUNE 12, 2026
Ross-Clayton Chapel, 1412 Adams Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
6pm, Ivy Beyond the Wall Ceremony
6:30pm, The Links, Incorporated Service
7pm, National Alumnae Association of Spelman College
7:30pm, Family Hour
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, 454 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
11am, Celebration of Life Service
Interment at Greenwood Cemetery, 909 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, AL 36109
Ross-Clayton Chapel, 1412 Adams Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
6pm, Ivy Beyond the Wall Ceremony
6:30pm, The Links, Incorporated Service
7pm, National Alumnae Association of Spelman College
7:30pm, Family Hour
SATURDAY, JUNE 13, 2026
Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church, 454 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
11am, Celebration of Life Service
Interment at Greenwood Cemetery, 909 Lincoln Road, Montgomery, AL 36109
Vera B. Jordan Endowed Scholarship
for Civic & Community Engagement
for Civic & Community Engagement
In lieu of flowers, the family invites friends, colleagues, and loved ones to honor Vera’s legacy through a contribution to the Vera B. Jordan Endowed Scholarship for Civic & Community Engagement at Spelman College. Gifts may be made payable to Spelman College and mailed to:
Spelman College
Division of Institutional Advancement
350 Spelman Lane, SW, Box 1551
Atlanta, GA 30314-4399
Contributions may also be made online through Spelman College’s website. Please indicate that your gift is designated for the “Vera B. Jordan Endowed Scholarship for Civic & Community Engagement.”
Spelman College
Division of Institutional Advancement
350 Spelman Lane, SW, Box 1551
Atlanta, GA 30314-4399
Contributions may also be made online through Spelman College’s website. Please indicate that your gift is designated for the “Vera B. Jordan Endowed Scholarship for Civic & Community Engagement.”
VIEW SLIDE SHOW OF MOMENTS WITH VERA
Got a great picture of you and Vera? Email ([email protected]) or text (336-558-7808) it to have it included below!
VERA'S OBITUARY
VERA BENESBY JORDAN
O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what He requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. — Micah 6:8
A charge to keep I have \ A God to glorify
On December 13, 1971, as the clouds retreated to reveal a glowing sun, a child was born to loving parents, Viola and Richard. They named her Vera––meaning “true” or “genuine”––in memory of her maternal grandmother, a fitting name for a woman whose life would be defined by authenticity, courage, and service to others.
Faith and learning were woven together in the Jordan household. She and her siblings were raised with a strong belief in God. Her educational journey began at the Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center on the campus of Alabama State University. She attended Montgomery Public Schools and excelled academically, graduating from Robert E. Lee High School. Her achievements and service would later earn her induction into the Lee High School Hall of Fame. She continued her educational journey at Spelman College as a history major. History was never merely a subject; to her history was a responsibility. Born in a city whose history helped shape the conscience of a nation, she developed a deep appreciation for the people, places, and sacrifices that transformed Montgomery from a point on a map into a symbol of courage and change. She understood that honoring the past was not enough; each generation bore responsibility for building upon it.
If her hometown gave her roots, college gave her wings. At Spelman College, she found an intellectual home among scholars, leaders, dreamers, and those who became lifelong friends. She engaged in aspects of student life from student government and cheerleading to Mortar Board and History Club. It was also during her Spelman years that she was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated whose commitment to scholarship, sisterhood, and service aligned naturally with the values instilled within her as a child. Throughout her life, she remained a proud and devoted soror, cultivating friendships and supporting causes that uplifted communities and empowered others.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a minor in Secondary Education in 1994, she continued her pursuit of knowledge with a Master of Science in Education degree in Teaching, Learning and Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s degree in Judicial Administration from Auburn University at Montgomery. She never stopped learning because she never stopped growing.
To serve the present age \ My calling to fulfill
One of her many gifts was her remarkable gift of ensuring people felt seen. Whether through conversation, encouragement, counsel, prayer, or simple acts of kindness, her ability to connect with people and remind them that they mattered was par excellence. People trusted her—with their questions, their concerns, their celebrations, and sometimes their burdens—because they knew she would respond with honesty, wisdom, and compassion. That gift served her well throughout a distinguished career in public service. As a Congressional Field Representative for United States Senator Richard Shelby, she devoted decades to helping constituents navigate challenges and access resources. She approached her work with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Those who worked alongside her knew they could depend upon her intelligence, attention to detail, and sound judgment.
Her life could never be confined to a job description. She seemed incapable of being a spectator. If a community needed strengthening, a family needed support, an organization needed leadership, or a young person needed encouragement or mentorship, she was there. Her service touched many lives and organizations, including The Links, Incorporated, where she served as President of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter; the Ivy Foundation, where she served as Chairman; the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College’s Montgomery Chapter; The Junior League of Montgomery; Leadership Montgomery; One Montgomery; the Community Foundation Board; the Metro YMCA Board; Family Guidance Center; Aid to Inmate Mothers; Habitat for Humanity; the Griel Foundation; and the Houston Hill Neighborhood Association.
To her, leadership was about service and her deep love for Montgomery was reflected in every board she joined, every initiative she supported, and every conversation in which she reminded others that progress is built upon sacrifice. She loved sharing stories about the city’s history and those whose courage paved the way for future generations. Friends often left conversations with her having learned something new—not because she intended to lecture, but because empowering others with knowledge was for her as natural as breathing. A fifth-generation Dexterite, she served Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church faithfully as Chair of the Trustee Board, Superintendent of Sunday School, President of the Youth Council, and Chairperson of the Ministerial Search Committee. She understood that faith required action and that discipleship demanded engagement. Micah 6:8 remained her compass.
Oh, may it all my powers engage \ To do my Master’s will
When challenges altered her mobility, she refused to allow those limitations to diminish her connection to others. She adapted. She continued encouraging, celebrating, and supporting people through phone calls, messages, prayers, and social media. Birthdays rarely escaped her attention. Friends often awoke to discover that she had already posted words of love, affirmation, and celebration. Even when circumstances changed, she continued finding ways to make people feel remembered. That was Vera. She showed up. Her ever-expanding circle of family and friends knew a woman who loved family gatherings and cherished friendships. They knew her love for SpelHouse Homecoming and the joy she found in reconnecting with friends who had become family. They knew her fascination with politics, her encyclopedic knowledge of history and current events, and her ability to transform an ordinary conversation into a meaningful exchange of ideas. They knew her generosity, loyalty, and wisdom.
Vera Benesby Jordan is a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, soror, Sister in Christ, mentor, and friend. She transitioned from this life to eternal joy and peace on June 6, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard Stephen Jordan. Her memory will be cherished by her mother, Viola Howze Jordan; and her sisters, Sharon V. Jordan, LaFreeda M. Jordan, and Richele (Daryl) Jordan-Davis. Her legacy will be sustained by her beloved nephews, Richard Davis, Nyles Davis, and Bray Davis; and by her sorors, especially her Mu Pi Spring 1992 Line Sisters. Others who count it a blessing to have known her are her Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorors; members of The Legendary Class of 1994; The College Crew; her beloved High School Social Club, The Exquisites; her circle of extended family; members of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church; alumni of Robert E. Lee High School; and a host of friends and loved ones.
When we think of her, let’s remember the zeal with which she lived for 54 years. Think of her when you feast on her favorites—barbecue pulled chicken (no one makes it like her daddy could), sautéed crab claws, molten skillet chocolate chip cookie, or pound cake. Remember her when you walk along a beach at sunset, soaking in God’s handiwork. When we think of her, let’s remember how proud she was of each of us—especially her nephews. Think of her when Christmas draws near. Let’s remember how she would “keep it real” with you not to tear you down, but to build you up. Remember how much she cherished her vintage candy apple red Mustang (Can’t you see her zipping by flashing her camera-ready megawatt smile?). When we think of her, let’s remember how she demonstrated God’s love through her words and actions. Remember how she fought a good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith. If we listen close enough, we’ll hear her voice: “Keep livin’…Every tub has to sit on its own bottom.”
© 2026 LEADright and the Jordan Family
Obituary written by Rev. Dr. Tony Lamair Burks II (Morehouse College, 1993), member The Society of Professional Obituary Writers
O people, the Lord has told you what is good, and this is what He requires of you: to do what is right, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God. — Micah 6:8
A charge to keep I have \ A God to glorify
On December 13, 1971, as the clouds retreated to reveal a glowing sun, a child was born to loving parents, Viola and Richard. They named her Vera––meaning “true” or “genuine”––in memory of her maternal grandmother, a fitting name for a woman whose life would be defined by authenticity, courage, and service to others.
Faith and learning were woven together in the Jordan household. She and her siblings were raised with a strong belief in God. Her educational journey began at the Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center on the campus of Alabama State University. She attended Montgomery Public Schools and excelled academically, graduating from Robert E. Lee High School. Her achievements and service would later earn her induction into the Lee High School Hall of Fame. She continued her educational journey at Spelman College as a history major. History was never merely a subject; to her history was a responsibility. Born in a city whose history helped shape the conscience of a nation, she developed a deep appreciation for the people, places, and sacrifices that transformed Montgomery from a point on a map into a symbol of courage and change. She understood that honoring the past was not enough; each generation bore responsibility for building upon it.
If her hometown gave her roots, college gave her wings. At Spelman College, she found an intellectual home among scholars, leaders, dreamers, and those who became lifelong friends. She engaged in aspects of student life from student government and cheerleading to Mortar Board and History Club. It was also during her Spelman years that she was initiated into Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated whose commitment to scholarship, sisterhood, and service aligned naturally with the values instilled within her as a child. Throughout her life, she remained a proud and devoted soror, cultivating friendships and supporting causes that uplifted communities and empowered others.
After earning a Bachelor of Arts degree in History with a minor in Secondary Education in 1994, she continued her pursuit of knowledge with a Master of Science in Education degree in Teaching, Learning and Leadership from the University of Pennsylvania and a Master’s degree in Judicial Administration from Auburn University at Montgomery. She never stopped learning because she never stopped growing.
To serve the present age \ My calling to fulfill
One of her many gifts was her remarkable gift of ensuring people felt seen. Whether through conversation, encouragement, counsel, prayer, or simple acts of kindness, her ability to connect with people and remind them that they mattered was par excellence. People trusted her—with their questions, their concerns, their celebrations, and sometimes their burdens—because they knew she would respond with honesty, wisdom, and compassion. That gift served her well throughout a distinguished career in public service. As a Congressional Field Representative for United States Senator Richard Shelby, she devoted decades to helping constituents navigate challenges and access resources. She approached her work with professionalism, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Those who worked alongside her knew they could depend upon her intelligence, attention to detail, and sound judgment.
Her life could never be confined to a job description. She seemed incapable of being a spectator. If a community needed strengthening, a family needed support, an organization needed leadership, or a young person needed encouragement or mentorship, she was there. Her service touched many lives and organizations, including The Links, Incorporated, where she served as President of the Montgomery (AL) Chapter; the Ivy Foundation, where she served as Chairman; the National Alumnae Association of Spelman College’s Montgomery Chapter; The Junior League of Montgomery; Leadership Montgomery; One Montgomery; the Community Foundation Board; the Metro YMCA Board; Family Guidance Center; Aid to Inmate Mothers; Habitat for Humanity; the Griel Foundation; and the Houston Hill Neighborhood Association.
To her, leadership was about service and her deep love for Montgomery was reflected in every board she joined, every initiative she supported, and every conversation in which she reminded others that progress is built upon sacrifice. She loved sharing stories about the city’s history and those whose courage paved the way for future generations. Friends often left conversations with her having learned something new—not because she intended to lecture, but because empowering others with knowledge was for her as natural as breathing. A fifth-generation Dexterite, she served Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church faithfully as Chair of the Trustee Board, Superintendent of Sunday School, President of the Youth Council, and Chairperson of the Ministerial Search Committee. She understood that faith required action and that discipleship demanded engagement. Micah 6:8 remained her compass.
Oh, may it all my powers engage \ To do my Master’s will
When challenges altered her mobility, she refused to allow those limitations to diminish her connection to others. She adapted. She continued encouraging, celebrating, and supporting people through phone calls, messages, prayers, and social media. Birthdays rarely escaped her attention. Friends often awoke to discover that she had already posted words of love, affirmation, and celebration. Even when circumstances changed, she continued finding ways to make people feel remembered. That was Vera. She showed up. Her ever-expanding circle of family and friends knew a woman who loved family gatherings and cherished friendships. They knew her love for SpelHouse Homecoming and the joy she found in reconnecting with friends who had become family. They knew her fascination with politics, her encyclopedic knowledge of history and current events, and her ability to transform an ordinary conversation into a meaningful exchange of ideas. They knew her generosity, loyalty, and wisdom.
Vera Benesby Jordan is a beloved daughter, sister, aunt, sister-in-law, soror, Sister in Christ, mentor, and friend. She transitioned from this life to eternal joy and peace on June 6, 2026. She was preceded in death by her father, Richard Stephen Jordan. Her memory will be cherished by her mother, Viola Howze Jordan; and her sisters, Sharon V. Jordan, LaFreeda M. Jordan, and Richele (Daryl) Jordan-Davis. Her legacy will be sustained by her beloved nephews, Richard Davis, Nyles Davis, and Bray Davis; and by her sorors, especially her Mu Pi Spring 1992 Line Sisters. Others who count it a blessing to have known her are her Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorors; members of The Legendary Class of 1994; The College Crew; her beloved High School Social Club, The Exquisites; her circle of extended family; members of Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church; alumni of Robert E. Lee High School; and a host of friends and loved ones.
When we think of her, let’s remember the zeal with which she lived for 54 years. Think of her when you feast on her favorites—barbecue pulled chicken (no one makes it like her daddy could), sautéed crab claws, molten skillet chocolate chip cookie, or pound cake. Remember her when you walk along a beach at sunset, soaking in God’s handiwork. When we think of her, let’s remember how proud she was of each of us—especially her nephews. Think of her when Christmas draws near. Let’s remember how she would “keep it real” with you not to tear you down, but to build you up. Remember how much she cherished her vintage candy apple red Mustang (Can’t you see her zipping by flashing her camera-ready megawatt smile?). When we think of her, let’s remember how she demonstrated God’s love through her words and actions. Remember how she fought a good fight, finished her course, and kept the faith. If we listen close enough, we’ll hear her voice: “Keep livin’…Every tub has to sit on its own bottom.”
© 2026 LEADright and the Jordan Family
Obituary written by Rev. Dr. Tony Lamair Burks II (Morehouse College, 1993), member The Society of Professional Obituary Writers
WATCH VIDEOS FEATURING VERA
Got a great video of you and Vera? Email ([email protected]) or text (336-558-7808) it to have it included below!
