Robert B. Jordan facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Robert B. Jordan
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| 29th Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina | |
| In office January 5, 1985 – January 7, 1989 |
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| Governor | Jim Martin |
| Preceded by | Jimmy Green |
| Succeeded by | Jim Gardner |
| Member of the North Carolina Senate from the 17th district |
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| In office January 1, 1977 – January 1, 1985 |
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| Preceded by | Mary Odom |
| Succeeded by | J. Richard Conder |
| Personal details | |
| Born |
Robert Byrd Jordan III
October 11, 1932 Mount Gilead, North Carolina |
| Died | February 16, 2020 (aged 87) Mount Gilead, North Carolina |
| Nationality | American |
| Political party | Democratic |
| Spouse | Sarah Cole |
| Alma mater | North Carolina State University (BS) |
| Military service | |
| Allegiance |  United States |
| Branch/service |  United States Army |
| Years of service | 1954–1956 |
Robert Byrd Jordan III (born October 11, 1932 – died February 16, 2020) was an important politician from North Carolina. He served as the 29th Lieutenant Governor of North Carolina from 1985 to 1989. He was known for his work in government and his strong support for education.
Contents
Robert B. Jordan III: A Life of Public Service
Robert Byrd Jordan III was a dedicated public servant. He spent many years working to improve North Carolina. His career included time in the state legislature and as Lieutenant Governor.
Early Life and Education
Robert Jordan was born in Mount Gilead, North Carolina, on October 11, 1932. He grew up in North Carolina and later attended North Carolina State University. In 1954, he graduated with honors, earning a degree in forestry. After college, he served in the United States Army from 1954 to 1956. Before entering politics, he managed his family's lumber company.
Political Career
Jordan began his political journey in the North Carolina Senate. He served as a Democrat from 1976 to 1984. During his time as a state senator, he worked on laws that helped the people of North Carolina.
In 1984, he decided to run for Lieutenant Governor. This is the second-highest elected office in the state. He won a tough election against Carl J. Stewart, Jr. in the Democratic primary. A primary election is when members of the same political party choose their candidate. Then, in the general election, he defeated Republican John H. Carrington. This made him North Carolina's 29th Lieutenant Governor. He served one term, from 1985 to 1989.
In 1988, Jordan ran for Governor of North Carolina. He easily won the nomination from his party. However, he lost the main election to the person who was already governor, James G. Martin.
Supporting Education
Robert Jordan was a strong supporter of education. He believed that good schools were important for everyone. He served on several important education boards in North Carolina:
- The North Carolina Board of Education
- The state Board of Community Colleges
- The University of North Carolina System Board of Governors
In 2009, he was chosen to lead the Trustees of North Carolina State University. This shows how much he cared about his alma mater.
Legacy
Robert Jordan passed away on February 16, 2020, at his home in Mount Gilead, North Carolina. His family's name lives on at North Carolina State University. Jordan Hall, a building on campus, is named after his family. He is remembered for his dedication to public service and his efforts to improve education in North Carolina.
