Obituary for Robert “Bob” E. Jordan, Sr.

Robert Earl Blair, affectionately known as Robert E. Jordan, Sr., completed his earthly journey on Wednesday, September 10, 2025, at 2:20 a.m. after courageously battling cancer for 14 years. He was 77 years old.

Born in St. Louis, Missouri, on October 3, 1947, Robert was the son of the late Daisy Blair and Samuel T. Jordan. He was raised in Union Springs, Alabama. At 21, he moved to Cleveland, Ohio, seeking new beginnings and new opportunities. It was there he changed his name to Robert E. Jordan.

Robert was blessed to find love twice. He first married his beloved Phyllis, who was called home to be with the Lord far too soon. From that union, he was blessed with two daughters, Tammy and Tawanda, and welcomed two stepdaughters, Sharisse and Kim. After years of healing, Robert’s heart opened again when he met and married his second great love, Harvetta. Together, they built a life of faith, laughter, and family. With Harvetta, Robert gained two more stepchildren, Alan and Carmen, and celebrated the birth of their son, Robert Jr., a gift that gave him the proud title of “Senior.” In the years to come, Robert accepted Christ as his Savior, a decision that shaped his life and the way he touched countless souls.

A man of many talents, Robert discovered his gift for scratch baking and became a master of his craft. Alongside Harvetta, he opened Tastee Donuts, a beloved bakery and donut shop that became a staple in the Cleveland community. For 17 years, Tastee Donuts was not just a business, but a place of fellowship, joy, and sweet comfort for countless customers. Even after closing their shop, Robert continued to share his baking skills in other bakeries until retirement.

Retirement did not slow Robert down. He and Harvetta turned their home into a haven of love, serving as foster parents to more than 20 children over the years. Their selflessness and devotion transformed lives and embodied Robert’s quiet strength and giving spirit.

Though Robert’s health began to fail in 2011, he met every trial with faith and determination. For 14 years, he fought cancer with grace, courage, and resilience. On September 10, 2025, Robert was called home by the Lord, having truly fought the good fight, finished the race, and kept the faith.

Robert leaves behind his devoted wife, Harvetta; his six siblings; Tommie, Michael, Joanne, Patsy, Ray, and Jewel; his beloved aunt, Mildred; his children Tammy, Tawanda (Tiger), Robert Jr. (Joann), Sharisse (David), Kim, Alan, and Carmen; his cherished grandchildren John, Javon, Jalen, Patrick, Camree, Tai Minkinli, Logan, Raygan, Jazlyn, Milan, Alay’zia, Robert III, and Joi; and his precious great-grandchildren; Love, Lyric, Jalen Jr., Javon Jr., Von Michael, Layla, Sir, David, Chase, Kya, and Marion. He will also be deeply missed by his church family at New Community Bible Fellowship, as well as a host of family, other relatives, friends, and loved ones.

Robert “Bob” Jordan, Sr. was a faithful husband, a loving father, a devoted grandfather, a loyal friend, and a man of quiet strength. His legacy is written not only in his family and the children he fostered, but also in the sweet moments he shared, the faith he lived, and the love he gave.

Rest well, Bob. You have earned your crown of glory. Until we meet again.