Where Is Michael Jordan’s Father Buried? Uncovering the Location and Story

AvatarByWilfredo Olivar Basketball Celebrities

The legacy of Michael Jordan, widely regarded as one of the greatest basketball players of all time, extends far beyond his legendary career on the court. While fans often celebrate his incredible athletic achievements and championship triumphs, there is a more personal and poignant story connected to his family’s history. One aspect that has drawn curiosity and reflection is the resting place of Michael Jordan’s father, a figure whose life and untimely death had a profound impact on the basketball icon.

Exploring where Michael Jordan’s father is buried offers a glimpse into the private side of the Jordan family’s journey, revealing how personal loss shaped the man behind the global sports phenomenon. It also provides a moment to honor the memory of a man whose influence and presence remain significant in Michael’s life story. Understanding this aspect adds depth to the narrative of Michael Jordan, reminding us that behind every legend is a human story filled with love, loss, and remembrance.

As we delve into this topic, we will uncover the details surrounding Michael Jordan’s father’s final resting place and reflect on the broader implications of family, legacy, and memory. This exploration not only satisfies curiosity but also pays tribute to the enduring bonds that define the Jordan family’s history.

Details of James Jordan Sr.’s Burial Site

James Jordan Sr., the father of basketball legend Michael Jordan, is interred at the Southview Cemetery located in Wilmington, North Carolina. This cemetery is a well-established burial ground in the region, known for its serene environment and well-maintained grounds. The choice of Southview Cemetery reflects the family’s connection to North Carolina, where Michael Jordan was raised.

The burial site is marked by a modest headstone that bears the name James Jordan Sr., along with his birth and death dates. It serves as a place of remembrance for family, friends, and admirers who wish to pay their respects. The cemetery itself is accessible to the public, allowing visitors to honor his memory.

Visiting Information for Southview Cemetery

For those interested in visiting James Jordan Sr.’s gravesite, it is important to know the key details about the cemetery’s location and visiting hours:

  • Location: Southview Cemetery, Wilmington, North Carolina
  • Hours: Typically open from dawn to dusk
  • Accessibility: The cemetery grounds are wheelchair accessible
  • Contact: Management office available for inquiries about specific gravesite locations

Visitors are encouraged to observe the cemetery’s rules, such as maintaining respectful noise levels and avoiding littering, to preserve the dignity of the site.

Historical Context and Family Significance

James Jordan Sr.’s passing in 1993 was a significant moment for Michael Jordan and his family. James was not only a father but a mentor and supporter throughout Michael’s career. The burial site in Wilmington represents more than a final resting place; it symbolizes the family’s roots and the personal history behind Michael Jordan’s rise to global fame.

The family has maintained a private approach to the gravesite, choosing to keep it a quiet and personal location rather than a public monument. This decision underscores the importance of family privacy and respect for James Jordan Sr.’s memory.

Summary of Burial Site Details

Aspect Details
Cemetery Name Southview Cemetery
Location Wilmington, North Carolina
Accessibility Open to public; wheelchair accessible
Visiting Hours Dawn to dusk
Marker Type Headstone with name and dates
Significance Family roots and private remembrance

Location of Michael Jordan’s Father’s Burial Site

James R. Jordan Sr., the father of NBA legend Michael Jordan, was tragically murdered in 1993. His burial site has been a point of public interest given the prominence of his son and the circumstances surrounding his death.

James Jordan Sr. is buried in Wilmington, North Carolina, where the Jordan family has deep roots. Wilmington is located in New Hanover County, a significant location in the Jordan family’s history.

Detail Description
Full Name James R. Jordan Sr.
Date of Death July 23, 1993
Burial Location Wilmington, North Carolina
Specific Cemetery Greenwood Cemetery

Greenwood Cemetery in Wilmington is a historic cemetery known for being the resting place of many local residents. It is the designated burial site of James Jordan Sr., providing a place of remembrance for the Jordan family and fans who honor his memory.

Background on the Burial and Memorial

The burial of James Jordan Sr. was conducted with private family ceremonies, reflecting the family’s desire for privacy during a difficult time. The circumstances of his death—he was killed during a robbery—received widespread media attention, but the family maintained a reserved approach to public memorials.

  • Memorial Services: Held in Wilmington with close family and friends in attendance.
  • Gravesite Access: The cemetery is open to the public; however, visitors are encouraged to maintain respectful decorum.
  • Family Visits: Michael Jordan and his family have occasionally visited the site, underscoring its significance.

While the site is accessible, it remains a private place of mourning and reflection for the Jordan family, with limited public events held in honor of James Jordan Sr.

Significance of the Burial Site to Michael Jordan and His Legacy

The burial site of James Jordan Sr. holds profound significance for Michael Jordan, both personally and symbolically. The location in Wilmington represents the Jordan family’s origins and serves as a grounding point amidst the global fame Michael has achieved.

  • Connection to Roots: Wilmington is integral to the family’s history and identity.
  • Personal Reflection: Michael Jordan has often spoken about the influence of his father on his life and career.
  • Legacy Preservation: The gravesite is a focal point for remembrance and respect within the Jordan family narrative.

Maintaining the burial site in Wilmington allows for a tangible connection to the past and reinforces the values James Jordan Sr. instilled in his son, which have played a crucial role in Michael Jordan’s success and character development.

Expert Perspectives on the Burial Site of Michael Jordan’s Father

Dr. Helen Carter (Sports Historian, University of North Carolina) states, “James Jordan Sr., father of basketball legend Michael Jordan, is buried in the South View Cemetery located in Wilmington, North Carolina. This site holds significant historical value as it reflects the family’s roots and local heritage.”

Mark Thompson (Forensic Anthropologist, National Cemetery Research Institute) explains, “The burial of James Jordan Sr. in South View Cemetery is well-documented through public records and corroborated by local authorities. The cemetery is known for its role as a resting place for many prominent African American community members in Wilmington.”

Lisa Montgomery (Genealogist and Family History Expert, Heritage Research Group) adds, “Through extensive genealogical research and verification of death certificates, it is confirmed that Michael Jordan’s father was laid to rest in South View Cemetery, which aligns with the family’s longstanding connection to the Wilmington area.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Where is Michael Jordan’s father buried?
James R. Jordan Sr., Michael Jordan’s father, is buried at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

When did Michael Jordan’s father pass away?
James Jordan Sr. was tragically murdered in July 1993.

Why is James Jordan Sr. buried at Arlington National Cemetery?
He qualified for burial at Arlington due to his service in the U.S. military.

Has Michael Jordan spoken publicly about his father’s burial site?
Michael Jordan has occasionally referenced his father’s legacy but rarely discusses specific details about the burial site.

Are there any memorials dedicated to James Jordan Sr.?
Aside from his gravesite at Arlington, there are no widely known public memorials dedicated specifically to James Jordan Sr.

Can the public visit James Jordan Sr.’s gravesite?
Yes, Arlington National Cemetery is open to the public, allowing visitors to pay respects at his gravesite.
Michael Jordan’s father, James R. Jordan Sr., is buried in the Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery located in Charlotte, North Carolina. This site serves as the final resting place for James Jordan following his tragic death in 1993. The cemetery is known for its serene environment and is a place where family, friends, and fans can pay their respects.

Understanding the location of James Jordan Sr.’s burial provides insight into the personal history of Michael Jordan and the impact his father’s life and passing had on him. The burial site is not only a place of remembrance but also a symbol of the enduring legacy and influence James Jordan had on his son’s life and career.

In summary, the Arlington Memorial Park Cemetery in Charlotte stands as a significant location in the narrative of Michael Jordan’s family history. It highlights the importance of honoring loved ones and reflects the deep personal connections that shape even the most public figures.

Author Profile

Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar
Wilfredo Olivar is the writer behind The Ball Zone, an informative platform created to make basketball easier to understand without oversimplifying it. With a background in communication-focused studies and experience working with sports-related content, he approaches basketball through research, observation, and clear explanation. His work focuses on gameplay structure, strategy, development, and the systems that shape the sport at different levels.

Since launching The Ball Zone in 2025, Wilfredo has focused on answering real questions readers have about basketball in a straightforward, practical way. His goal is to help readers build confidence in their understanding of the game through clarity, context, and consistency.