Jordan Daniel Gallup lived a full and exemplary life for 44 years, bringing warmth and joy to those around him before passing away peacefully at home in San Tan Valley, AZ, on July 31, 2024, after a courageous battle with colon cancer.
Jordan was born on June 5, 1980, to Danny Wayne and Suzanne Dorgan Gallup in Provo, Utah. He spent his early years in Cedar Hills, Utah, where he explored the foothills, built forts, and enjoyed scouts with his neighborhood friends.
At age 11, Jordan’s family moved to Austin, Texas, a place that would leave a lasting impression on him. He quickly fell in love with the Texas Hill Country, BBQ and the people. This new environment fueled his artistic passions and expanded his appreciation for the diverse people and experiences that would shape his life.
During his youth he was known for his energy, and sense of humor. Jordan was always the life of the party. He loved performing—whether it was acting in plays, leading cheer yells, or making everyone around him laugh with his antics. His love for music, dance, and the arts was undeniable. His talents even led him to be an extra in movies and to be featured in Seventeen Magazine. In 1998, Jordan graduated from Austin High School.
He was active in YSA-young adult activities. Jordan’s vibrant personality was loved by all. He was a natural leader, inclusive and a good friend to everyone he met.
At 19, Jordan chose to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints and was called to serve in the California, San Francisco Mission from 1999-2001. His mission deepened his faith and allowed him to connect with others and share his love for Christ.
After his mission, Jordan was accepted to BYU-Idaho. During his time in Idaho he was involved in intramural sports and fell in love with volleyball and snowboarding. He also had the opportunity to spend a couple semesters with his sister, where they were able to become best friends as adults. In 2006 he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Psychology.
During his last semester, Jordan met the love of his life, Amber Pannell. After college, their paths crossed again, and through a long-distance relationship, their connection deepened into a love that was both lasting and deeply meaningful. Their commitment to each other grew stronger with time. They were married in June of 2007 in the Salt Lake Temple. Together, they built a beautiful life in Arizona, where they raised four children and adopted two girls in 2016, surrounding them with love, laughter, and endless support.
During his time in Arizona he worked 15 years at Boeing and built lasting friendships there. However, Jordan was a passionate entrepreneur. In 2018, with his best friend Ty Bowman, they would turn Jordan’s dream of running his own clothing company into a reality. Building a business together, American Nomad Apparel that reflected their creativity and dedication. He was so excited to bring his dream and his art to life.
Being a father was one of Jordan’s proudest accomplishments. Each child brought a new purpose and dedication to his family. Once his oldest started playing volleyball Jordan was even more impassioned. He became the team dad and loudest cheerleader. When his son started playing, Jordan started coaching volleyball himself. He never lost the desire to play volleyball, and played multiple times a week.
Serving the youth in his church was one of his favorite pastimes. He spent many years camping, boating, learning new skills, and playing games as a youth leader. All while building supportive relationships and being an example of good in his own actions around them. Helping support and cultivate their own passions, was something he very much enjoyed.
Jordan’s life was a testament to his passion for people, his love for adventure, and his unyielding desire to bring joy and creativity to those around him. Jordan’s legacy is one of love, strength, gratitude and unwavering kindness. His presence touched many lives, and his memory will continue to inspire those who knew him.
Jordan was preceded in death by his father, Dan (Aug.2023), his maternal grandfather-Zeke Dorgan, and paternal grandparents-Blaine and Minnie Gallup.
He is survived by his beloved wife, Amber Pannell Gallup, and their six children: daughter-Camryn, son-Brighton, daughter-Kirstyn, son-Hunter, daughter-Katie, and son-Austin. By his mother, Suzanne, his three sisters: Melissa Leavitt (Kellen), and children- Mabel, Finn, and Walt; Amy Gallup; and Hillary Stevens (Eric), and daughter Stella. His maternal grandmother-Lynette Anderson (Duane) Harmon, as well as numerous aunts, uncles, cousins, and many friends, who all profoundly miss him.