The Portland community is mourning the heartbreaking loss of Ryan Jordan, a devoted family man and tireless advocate for youth athletics, who passed away Thursday morning after a short illness. He was 44 years old.
To many in Portland, Ryan wasn’t just a name — he was a fixture. A leader who showed up early and stayed late. A voice of encouragement on the sidelines. A man who, for years, put the community’s children first — and always with humility and heart.
From the Little League diamond to the football field, Ryan Jordan gave everything he had to building opportunities for young athletes. In doing so, he built something more enduring than any trophy: a culture of inclusion, compassion, and community spirit.
Ryan’s leadership was especially vital during one of the most difficult periods for youth sports — the COVID-19 pandemic. As the former President of Portland Little League, he stepped in when programs were floundering, and participation was down.
“He guided us back through the pandemic to a place where we were so much stronger,” said current Portland Little League President Mark Peltier. “He was really focused on getting more opportunities for kids on the field.”
Ryan’s tenure wasn’t about the spotlight — it was about the kids. Every decision, every volunteer hour, every planning session was rooted in a simple but powerful belief: all kids deserve a chance to play.
From 2019 to 2024, Ryan served as President of the Portland Youth Football League, shaping the futures of countless young athletes. But his influence went far beyond any single sport.
He was also deeply involved in youth basketball and always made a point to support both boys’ and girls’ programs.
“Boys, girls — it didn’t matter,” said Nick Cliche, a coach in the football league. “He put the kids first, put the leagues first, and made sure everybody could have an opportunity to participate. He was always others first.”
This philosophy made Ryan not just a leader, but a role model. To coaches, he was a mentor. To kids, he was a champion. And to parents, he was someone they could trust with their child’s first sports experience — and, often, their child’s first community beyond school and home.
While his work in the community was expansive, Ryan’s greatest joy came from his own family. He is survived by his loving wife, Stephanie, and their two sons, Bailey and Quinn, both of whom play for the Portland High School football team — a fitting tribute to their father’s passion.
Ryan supported his boys not only as a dad in the stands but as a believer in their dreams. He was never just “on the sidelines.” He was present, in every sense of the word.
Two tributes are planned in Ryan’s honor:
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Fitzpatrick Stadium, Friday night, before the Portland High vs. Thornton Academy football game
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Memorial Stadium, before the Deering High vs. Cheverus High matchup
These tributes will offer a moment for the community to gather, to remember, and to honor the man who gave so much so selflessly.