Helen Elaine Jordan

Dr. Helen Elaine Jordan, 97, of Staunton, VA, previously of Stillwater, OK, died peacefully on

December 31, 2023.

She was born on July 19, 1926, in Rockingham County, VA, daughter of the late Oliver and Iva

Rebecca Jordan.

Dr. Jordan earned her undergraduate degree from Bridgewater College. In 1948, she completed

training as a medical technologist at Cornell University. While working toward a master's degree

at Virginia Tech, she had the opportunity to enroll in the veterinary program at the University of

Georgia. In her own words, “I saw a door open and went on in”.

In 1955, she earned both her master's at Tech and her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine at Georgia,

becoming one of the first women veterinarians in the United States. She went on to earn a PhD in

Zoology and taught at the University of Georgia and Oklahoma State University, where she

joined the faculty as a full professor, retiring in 1993.

Helen was known for her adventurous spirit and inquisitive mind but will be remembered for her

unwavering encouragement to live life to the fullest. She is survived by sister June Jordan,

brother John Jordan (Kay), sister-in-law Linda Jordan, and three generations of beloved nieces

and nephews. She was preceded in death by her partner Dr. Julia McHale, sister Doady Didawick

(Guy), brother Oliver William Jordan, Jr., and sister-in-law Ruth Jordan.

A memorial service will be conducted at Johnson Funeral Home, located at 208 South Main

Street, Bridgewater, VA, on Sunday, January 7th at 2PM.

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the National Audubon Society .