Msgr. Harry J. Jordan, a retired pastor and dedicated principal in Catholic schools across the Diocese, died March 25 at age 90.
Born Nov. 25, 1932, in Philadelphia, Msgr. Jordan attended Lafayette College in Easton, Pa.; Villanova University, Villanova, Pa., and Christ the King Seminary, N.Y., before being ordained a priest May 27, 1961, by Bishop Celestine J. Damiano.
In addition to his many assignments as parochial vicar throughout the Diocese, he served as administrator of Saint Mary Church in Rosenhayn, as well as pastor of Saint Isidore the Farmer, Vineland, and later of Saint Mary Parish, Gloucester City, where he remained until his retirement in 2003.
A fervent supporter of Catholic education, he was acting vice principal, and later, principal of Gloucester Catholic High School, Gloucester City, and principal in Saint Joseph High School, Hammonton. He also served on the faculty of Camden Catholic High School, Cherry Hill, and in college campus ministry.
Msgr. Jordan’s other assignments included time as a member of the Diocesan Commission for the Continuing Education and Spiritual Development of Priests; the Presbyteral Council and the College of Consultors. He also oversaw the House of Charity as well as the Vianney Villa and Sacred Heart Residences in Cherry Hill.
In an interview last year with the Catholic Star Herald, Msgr. Jordan talked about the 25th anniversary of Sacred Heart Residence.
“It has been a wonderful retirement here, and I thank God for every day,” said Msgr. Jordan, who lived at the residence for nearly 20 years. “It is great to be with my brother priests.”
A viewing will be held at 9 a.m. March 28 at Saint Mary’s Church, 426 Monmouth St., Gloucester City.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be at 10 a.m. Interment will follow at New Saint Mary’s Cemetery, Bellmawr.