John Charles Jordan

John Charles Jordan, 74, passed away unexpectedly Friday, June 19, 2026.

He was a lifelong resident of Aiken, son of the late Clyde Rufus Jordan and Myrtle Flinn Jones.

John began his career at just 12 years old as a bag boy at Piggly Wiggly and spent many years there growing into several different roles, including working as a butcher in the meat market. He continued his career at Dupont/Westinghouse/SRS until he retired. Retirement never slowed him down though. His passion and talent for working in the meat market at Dave’s Grill & Grocery and assisting at Weeks Deer Processing led him back to doing what he loved. Known for his knowledge of meat cutting and his helpful nature, he built lasting relationships with customers who often traveled out of their way to buy from him because they trusted his craftmanship and believed nobody made sausage or prepared cuts quite like he did. He took pride in his work, and it was something he loved teaching others and talking about.

John never met a stranger. He had a way of making people feel welcome, whether through conversation, advice, or one of his many jokes. Kind, witty, smart, and wise, he was someone people naturally turned to for guidance. He loved making others laugh and especially enjoyed joking around and playfully nagging anyone he could. Fittingly, he was born on April Fool’s Day, a date that suited his humor and the joy he brought to those around him.

John wore many hats as a husband and father. He was an avid gardener, a coach, an excellent cook and a skilled do it yourselfer. He was an extremely devoted family man and believed family was worth showing up for. Near or far, close relatives or distant cousins, he never missed a chance to support those he cared about. He was a proud father to his two daughters and some of the people he loved most called him Papa. His five grandchildren knew him as someone who always had advice to share, a story to tell, and love to give. His family will remember him for the meals he cooked, the lessons he taught, the laughter he created, and the way he made ordinary moments feel special. John and his wife Mary shared a love for the beach, and some of his families’ most cherished memories were made during their annual beach trips with their daughters, sons-in-law, and grandchildren. These gatherings were a tradition he looked forward to each year and a reflection of how much he valued time spent together. His presence leaves a space that cannot be filled, but his stories, wisdom, and love will remain with those who knew him.

John is survived by his high school sweetheart, the love of his life, Mary Mobley Jordan, daughters, Katie J. (Eric) Proctor, Valdosta, GA, Angie J. (Corey) Doolittle, Graniteville, SC, and; grandchildren, Meredith P. (Joseph) Barbara, Jordan Proctor, Leighton Proctor, Kendall Doolittle, and Jenks Doolittle; and a sister, Sara J. (Kevin) Osteen, Nashville, TN.

A Celebration of life will be held at 11am, Tuesday, June 23rd at St. Johns Methodist Church with the Reverend Grayson “Butch” Blackwell officiating.

A visitation will be held from 5:00-7:00 PM Monday, June 22nd at SHELLHOUSE FUNERAL HOME, INC., 924 HAYNE AVE