Jordan Rose Leon

While Jordan was killed in a tragic accident she left us a legacy that was anything but tragic. She lived her life making a difference. She was passionate about the things she believed in, curious and intense. From climate change to women’s rights to advocacy for the Deaf she wanted all of us to be better and do more. She left her corner of the world a more caring, compassionate and inclusive place than what she found it.

On a local level, she wanted people to be nice. Jordan fought tenaciously for herself and others. Being Deaf she knew what it felt like to not fit in easily and she made serious and committed efforts to welcome others in the ways that she wished she could have been welcomed. She started an ASL club at Ankeny High school to bring people together. Jordan was open about her experiences with depression in the hopes that the stigma could be lifted and that others would be more accepting.

She would like you to remember her as someone who made you want to do more. Voting was on her bucket list for 2020. Vote because she can’t (and she would vote Democrat). Vote with compassion and an open mind and question everything, knowing that your ballot impacts the lives of all of us. Practice random acts of kindness. Be inclusive. Sit with someone new at lunch or an office meeting. Be a voice for those who aren’t being heard. Help protect the planet with your vote and your voice. Rescue an animal (or two). Respect women. Be brave.

If we all remember her in these ways, the ripple effect of her short and beautiful life will be felt far beyond those whose lives she has already touched.

Jordan was born May 30, 2002 in Fairfax, Virginia and died October 6, 2019 in Des Moines, Iowa.

In lieu of flowers, you can honor Jordan with donations to The Trevor Project www.thetrevorproject.org or the Nyle DiMarco Foundation www.nyledimarcofoundation.com.

If you are unable to attend the celebration of her life on Thursday, October 17, condolences may be expressed at www.HamiltonsFuneralHome.com.

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