Thursday, May 08, 2008

Jordan grave modest, special

Ever stumbled upon something and couldn’t believe where you were standing? That happened to me Wednesday evening.

Part of a long walk I took through a few Auburn neighborhoods included a path through Auburn Memorial Park Cemetery. I veered off the main path to walk among the grave markers, just checking out a few names. Then one name caught my eye.

James Ralph Jordan.

Is that? No. Yes? The most celebrated coach in Auburn football history is laid to rest right here. I didn’t realize a grave of someone so legendary would be no different than anyone else in a cemetery. I guess I figured he’d have something elaborate. Then I thought about it. No, Shug, as folks call him, didn’t want all the glamour and attention. He was a man just like anyone else.

I always respected coach Jordan, though I never met nor saw him. Heard some great things about him. After seeing his modest grave marker, I respect him even more.