Pauletta M. Diggs-Jordan

Pauletta Michele Diggs-Jordan affectionately known as Lila was born to the late Sallie Mae Diggs and Paul Diggs Jr. on August 11, 1959, in Baltimore, MD.  On Sunday May 26th, 2024, replicating Jesus’ Last Supper as she was surrounded by family and friends, she said good night and asked the Lord to help her transition to her heavenly tabernacle.

In her early years, Lila worshipped at her great uncle's church, New Vine Baptist Church. She was baptized at Greater Harvest Baptist Church and later found her spiritual home at United Baptist Church, where she became a faithful member, following in the footsteps of her beloved maternal grandmother, Annie Hooker.

She graduated from Paul Laurence Dunbar High School.  She dedicated over 37 years of her career to working at Social Security Administration, where she was known for her 7-up cake, warm personality, dedication, and beautiful spirit.

In 1976, John and Lila's paths crossed in homeroom. One September day during English class, when John wasn't feeling well, Lila, with her nurturing spirit, brought him a pack of Halls. From that moment on, she has lovingly cared for him ever since.  Beautifully sealing their love and commitment, they were married on September 28, 1996.  Together, John and Lila lovingly welcomed their daughter Quiana into the world and later expanded their family welcoming their cherished son Myles, completing their circle of love.

Lila embodied the true essence of compassion and generosity, extending her hand to those in need with a heart full of love. Her passion for cooking was unmatched, as she effortlessly transformed simple ingredients into meals that could nourish a multitude. Even when faced with her own battles, Lila's unwavering spirit shone through as she showed up for others, spreading warmth and kindness. Her love for arts and crafts was a testament to her creative soul, finding joy in every brushstroke and stitch. Yet, amidst her creative pursuits, Lila's greatest masterpiece was the time she spent with her beloved family, cherishing each moment shared together with boundless affection and cherished memories that will forever live on in their hearts.

Sal encouraged her to be the best big sister, and she embraced this role wholeheartedly, extending her sincere care not only to her siblings but also to everyone who crossed her path.  Lila was the rock of “Gibraltar” in her family.  Lila was the epitome of a Godmother and God sister, she truly understood her assignment, embodying and performing the role to perfection.

Lila was a beloved, wife, mother, grandmother, daughter, sister, aunt, and friend.  She is survived by her husband, John Jordan, their children Quiana (Bryheem) and Myles, her cherished granddaughters Aubrey-Michele (Ma Ma) and Blair-Ashley (Apple Dumplin’), Mother-in-law Phyllis, Sister-in-law Jackie.  She is also survived by her brother Maurice, sister’s Tanya, Terri (Ivory), Valiant (Mickey) who proceeded her in death (her chauffeur Al), Desiree, her brother Clifton (Karen), and her sister’s Shannon and Chanel.  Her bonus children/ nieces and nephews, Kimyon, Marquita, Quante’ (NaChanza), Tamika, Delbert, Ashley who proceeded her in death, Alexis, Brett, Martez (Marty), Antoine, Zaynah, and Malik.  Great-nieces and nephews Chris, Isaiah, Ja’Niyah, Zhyan, Quante’ (Mookaman), Amari, Nova, Aidan, Kasyn.  Goddaughter Latanya (Labriyia & Lamont) God sister’s Kenya (Kendra) Karyn (Korryn), Bonus Sister Cathy, and a host of family and friends.