Deloris Jordan, the mother of former Chicago Bulls legend Michael Jordan, has made a lasting impact both as a devoted family member and a compassionate philanthropist. As the President and Founder of the James R. Jordan Foundation, she dedicated nearly two decades to honoring her husband’s legacy while uplifting communities in need. Under her leadership, the foundation flourished, leading to her recognition with the prestigious Clinton Global Initiative Award in 2005—a well-deserved honor that highlighted her commitment to positive change.

Before stepping into the public eye through her son Michael Jordan’s extraordinary career, Deloris was a young woman from Rose Hill, North Carolina. She attended Charity High School, where life took a meaningful turn during a school basketball game in 1954—she met James Raymond Jordan Sr., the man who would become her beloved husband. Their life together was marked by love, faith, and strong family values, raising five children: James Jr., Larry, Deloris, Roslyn, and of course, Michael Jordan.

Tragedy struck in 1993 when her husband was tragically murdered, an event that deeply affected the entire family, including Michael Jordan. Yet, through grief, Deloris Jordan remained resilient, channeling her strength into charitable work and supporting her children. Her enduring influence can be seen not only in the lives she touched through her foundation but also in the character and values instilled in her famous son, Michael Jordan.