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Lee Roy Jordan
1941 - 2025
Lee Roy Jordan
1941 - 2025
Obituary
Guest Book
BORN
1941
DIED
2025
Lee Roy Jordan Obituary
Jordan's enduring legacy rests on his role anchoring the Cowboys' famed "Doomsday Defense," where as a Pro Bowl linebacker he helped secure their first Super Bowl victory and established franchise tackling records that stood for decades.
Born April 27, 1941, in Excel, Alabama, Jordan attended Excel High School, where he played football as a fullback. He played college football at the University of Alabama under coach Bear Bryant, helping win the national championship in 1961 and earning unanimous All American honors in 1962. In his final college game, the 1963 Orange Bowl, he recorded 31 tackles and earned MVP honors.
The Cowboys chose Jordan in the first round of the 1963 NFL Draft, the sixth overall pick. Although he was also selected by the AFL's Boston Patriots, he signed with Dallas. He went on to become the first rookie linebacker in Cowboys history to start a season opener. Over a 14 season career from 1963 to 1976, he anchored the Cowboys' Doomsday Defense, earning five Pro Bowl selections and two All Pro honors. He helped Dallas win Super Bowl VI, and he played in three Super Bowls and multiple NFC championship games.
Jordan retired as the Cowboys' all time leader in combined tackles (1,236) and solo tackles (743), records that endured for decades. He once intercepted three passes in one quarter, a feat still tied for the franchise's single game mark.
Following his playing days, Jordan operated the Lee Roy Jordan Lumber Company in Dallas. He married Mary "Biddie" Banks in 1964 and had three sons.
In a 2017 interview with Rick Gosselin, Jordan talked about his busy playing days: " I was always hustling to be around the ball … Being in the vicinity to help my teammates make plays was always the most important thing to me."
In 1980, Jordan was honored by his home state with induction into the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame. Three years later, he became a member of the College Football Hall of Fame, and in 1989, he was the seventh player inducted into the Cowboys' Ring of Honor.
By Legacy News Staff
(Image: AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
10 Entries
Aaron White
Yesterday
Aaron White
Yesterday
So sorry for the families loss!!
Aaron White
Yesterday
Excel is saddened for the passing of Lee Roy! Many young men have looked up to him for his hard nose play and dedication to the team! We will always be the Home of Lee Roy Jordan !!
Jeffrey Wells
Yesterday
Sorry to hear of the passing of your loved one. Lee will be remembered by family and friends. Our Heavenly Father will also remember all the wonderful acts that Lee showed in the behalf of others. May this bring your family comfort.
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Stan Stephenson
Yesterday
Grew up hearing the always present story " keep them between the lines and ole Leroy will get them " Statement made by Coach Bryant. Mr. Jordan was a childhood hero and one of the reasons I claimed Dallas as my favorite team growing up. Stan Stephenson
Mark C. Averitt
September 2, 2025
I am so sorry to hear of Mr. Jordan´s passing. He was a true Legend and my favorite Cowboy. As a kid playing Quarterback and I wore #55 and I am proud to have one of his game-worn jerseys. I visited with him on Election Day a few years ago and he was so kind and engaging. He will truly be remembered as one of the cornerstones of the Dallas Cowboys. My prayers are with his family and may Lee Roy rest in peace.
Peggy Patterson
September 2, 2025
We had the honor of meeting Mr. Jordan a few years back. He was a kind, generous man and a great Cowboy legend.
Fred and Peggy Patterson
Mark Averitt
September 2, 2025
Pamela Jean Jordan Hall
September 2, 2025
My name is Pamela J Jordan Hall, the eldest daughter of Wyla R "Bud" Jordan, and granddaughter of Sam Russell Jordan. I will never forget the many visits with Aunt Cleo and Uncle Walter... gathering around for dinner. She made the best fried chicken and peach cobbler! I only met Lee Roy 4 times (family reunion) but he remembered my dad and made me feel as if I he'd known, and loved me, all my life! This ability was Lee Roy's greatest gift of character. All my love and prayers to all of our family during our loss.
JOHN ILES
September 2, 2025
I wore the number 55 because of Lee Roy Jordan. One of the TRUE DALLAS COWBOY GREATS.
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