5 Unseen Roles Of Deloris Jordan: Michael Jordan's Mom Is A Global Powerhouse Beyond Basketball
Few figures in sports history are as universally recognized as Michael Jordan, but the powerhouse behind the legend—his mother, Deloris Jordan—has quietly built a monumental legacy of her own that extends far beyond the basketball court. As of late 2025, Deloris Jordan continues her tireless work as a global philanthropist, an inspirational author, and the matriarch of one of the world’s most famous families, with her recent activities highlighting her unwavering commitment to community health and education.
The narrative of the greatest basketball player of all time is incomplete without acknowledging the foundational principles instilled by his parents, Deloris and the late James R. Jordan Sr. While many know her from the iconic moments in Michael’s career or the popular docuseries *The Last Dance*, her current focus on large-scale charitable initiatives and public advocacy proves she is a force for good in her own right, continually shaping lives both in the U.S. and internationally.
Deloris Jordan: A Complete Profile and Biography
Deloris Jordan is an accomplished author, philanthropist, and the founder of a major international foundation. Her life story is a testament to the power of hard work, faith, and family values, which she successfully imparted to her five children.
- Full Name: Deloris Jordan (née Peoples)
- Date of Birth: September 1941
- Place of Birth: Rocky Mount, North Carolina
- Spouse: James R. Jordan Sr. (married 1963, deceased 1993)
- Children: James R. Jordan Jr. ("Larry"), Deloris E. Jordan, Michael Jeffrey Jordan, Roslyn M. Jordan, and Maria Jordan
- Career: Former Bank Teller, Bestselling Author, Philanthropist, Public Speaker, and Founder/President of the James R. Jordan Foundation.
- Notable Works: Co-author of children’s books including *Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream* (2000) and *Michael's Golden Rules* (2006).
The $10 Million Tribute: Honoring Her Legacy in Healthcare
One of the most significant and recent developments underscoring Deloris Jordan’s impact is her son Michael’s monumental philanthropic gesture. In a move that highlights her lifelong dedication to health and wellness, Michael Jordan honored his mother by donating a substantial sum to a medical center in his hometown.
The basketball icon donated $10 million to the Novant Health medical center in Wilmington, North Carolina. This gift was specifically made in honor of Deloris Jordan, expanding his total commitment to Novant Health to $27 million, all aimed at improving healthcare access for underserved communities in the region. The donation is earmarked to advance brain health, a critical and often underfunded area of medicine.
This tribute is a direct reflection of Deloris's own work through her foundation. Her focus on community health initiatives for decades made this an incredibly fitting way for Michael to acknowledge her influence and commitment to giving back. The gesture speaks volumes about the enduring bond between mother and son and the shared value of uplifting their community.
The Global Reach of The James R. Jordan Foundation (JRJF)
Deloris Jordan’s primary focus today is her role as the founder and president of the James R. Jordan Foundation (JRJF), which she established in 1996 in memory of her late husband. This organization is far more than a simple charity; it is a comprehensive global initiative dedicated to creating a better future for children and families.
The foundation’s mission is centered on providing educational, health, and emotional support to children and families, helping them achieve their full potential. The JRJF operates both domestically in the United States and internationally through its arm, the James R. Jordan Foundation International.
- Domestic Impact: The JRJF runs programs focused on literacy, technology training, and youth leadership development in the U.S.
- International Impact: Deloris Jordan has personally overseen the development of global health programs, most notably establishing the Kenya Women's and Family Health Center. This center provides essential medical services, health education, and maternal care to communities in Africa.
Her recent public appearances, such as a visit to Solvita, have been to champion the foundation’s mission of promoting hard work and service to others, underscoring that her passion for philanthropy remains as strong as ever.
More Than a Matriarch: Bestselling Author and Inspirational Speaker
Beyond her work in philanthropy, Deloris Jordan has cemented her status as an inspirational figure through her career as an author and public speaker. Her books, co-authored with her daughter Roslyn M. Jordan, have become classics in children's literature, focusing on the core values that shaped Michael Jordan’s success.
Key Inspirational Works:
- *Salt in His Shoes: Michael Jordan in Pursuit of a Dream* (2000): This *New York Times* bestseller tells the story of a young Michael Jordan who worries he will never be tall enough to play basketball. Deloris’s advice in the book—to put salt in his shoes and say a prayer every night—is a powerful metaphor for patience, faith, and hard work.
- *Michael's Golden Rules* (2006): This book focuses on the importance of good sportsmanship, teamwork, and persistence, further illustrating the moral compass she provided her children.
Her work as an author and public speaker has allowed her to share her unique perspective on parenting, success, and resilience with a global audience. She has been honored by institutions like the MLK Center at UNC-Chapel Hill for her lifelong commitment to service and leadership, proving her influence reaches far beyond the sports world.
The Enduring Cultural Impact and "Dear Deloris" Tribute
Deloris Jordan’s impact on popular culture has seen a resurgence in recent years, particularly following the release of *The Last Dance* docuseries in 2020 and the 2023 film *Air*, where she was portrayed by Oscar-winner Viola Davis. These projects reintroduced her powerful, grounded presence to a new generation, showcasing her as the stable anchor of the Jordan family.
Her influence is so profound that it has even been immortalized in the Jordan Brand lineup. In 2021, a new shoe in the Jordan Series was released as the "Dear Deloris," a direct and heartfelt tribute to her role in Michael’s success. The shoe, which features a letter-like design, is a tangible representation of her status as an icon whose guidance was instrumental in creating the Air Jordan empire.
Deloris Jordan’s story is a powerful reminder that behind every towering figure is often an even stronger foundation. Her ongoing work with the James R. Jordan Foundation, her inspirational writing, and her recent recognition through major donations and cultural portrayals confirm that she is not just Michael Jordan’s mom, but a remarkable, active, and influential figure in her own right.
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