David John Jordan

LEEDS – David “Dave, Big Dave, and Papa” Jordan, 79, of Leeds, passed away peacefully with his loving family by his side on April 12, 2026.

Born Aug. 4, 1946, in Lewiston, he was the third child to Margaret, “Peggy,” and William, “Kike,” Jordan. A 1963 graduate of Leavitt Institute, Dave worked for the family vegetable stand as a teenager as well as driving trucks for RI Mitchell and Maine Banana Company in his early adult years. Dave also served in the 76th Army Reserves Division for six years. He worked at Pioneer Plastics as well as hand-sewing for ROC Moccasin Shoe Company, which he later would continue hand sewing at home after his day job. In 1977, he found his career occupation for the MSAD 52 school department as a maintenance worker, grounds keeper, and custodian for 43 and a half years until he retired in 2020 at 74 years old. He took immense pride in his work, especially in the athletic fields.

Dave married the love of his life, Sherilyn, “Sherry,” Mae Jordan on Nov. 10, 1967. They lived a lifetime dedicated to family and serving others at their Leeds residence. The couple always kept their door open to the neighborhood children to visit, eat meals, and get a delicious homemade sweet snack including Sherry’s famous popcorn balls at Halloween. He volunteered to open local gymnasiums for youths to play basketball as well as taking kids to the baseball fields. He coached recreational baseball in Leeds for several years while always looking to help each player on his teams improve and enjoy their experience. Dave was an advocate for the underdog athlete. Dave enjoyed watching sports and cheering on his favorite teams. He was a devoted fan of the Boston Celtics, Baltimore Ravens, Atlanta Braves, and the NFL Draft. His greatest sports love was attending Leavitt Hornet football games which he did from 1960-2025.

Dave was a walking encyclopedia of sports knowledge, facts, memories and for vintage vehicles. He enjoyed reminiscing with others. Dave also had a huge passion for the outdoors and nature. He enjoyed working in his vegetable garden, planting flowers, fishing, and hunting. Dave was an avid whitetail deer hunter as he harvested many deer in his lifetime while creating great family memories in the process. He will be remembered most for his love for others, dedication to his family, kindness, work ethic, and altruism.

Dave is survived by his loving family including wife Sherry; children Amanda Wagner of Leeds and Dave (Celeste Beaudet) of Auburn; his grandchildren Celeste Wagner of Leeds and Charity Ferguson (Ian Ferguson) of Augusta; his great-grandchildren, Evangeline Ferguson, Edison Colby, and Jeremiah Ferugson; as well as many nieces and nephews.

He was predeceased by his mother and father; as well as his siblings William C. Jordan Jr., Mary Francis Jordan, and Eugene C. Jordan.

A celebration of life will be held on Saturday May 2 at 10 a.m. at the Union Cemetery in Leeds. A reception will be held at the Leeds Community Church immediately following.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the

Leeds Youth Athletic Association

c/o Liza Keach

214 Sumner Rd.

Leeds, ME 04263