NASSAU COUNTY PRESS RELEASE
Contact:
Sabrina Robertson
Public Information Officer
(904) 530-6010
Nassau County, Florida, August 3, 2020 –It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of our County Extension Director, Rebecca Jordi. Becky lost her long, courageous battle with cancer on July 31st at the age of 66.
Becky began her employment with Nassau County on May 4, 2001 as an Extension Agent in Horticulture. Over the years, she also served as an Extension Agent for 4H, an Extension Agent II and finally as the County Extension Director since September 3, 2010.
Becky had a Bachelor’s Degree from Florida State University, a Master’s Degree from Kutztown University and earned her certification with the International Society of Arborists. She won many awards including: Florida Association of Natural Resources Professionals-Mid Career Leadership Award; Florida Association of County Agricultural Agent Search for Excellence Team Award, National Finalist; National Finalist in Landscape Horticulture; Computerized Graphic Presentation Silver Award; and Extension Professional Association Young Professional of the Year. Her most recent achievement was the publishing of her long-awaited children’s book, Zoe’s Mission.
Becky initiated many projects including, but not limited, the demonstration gardens at the James S. Page Governmental Complex and Yulee County Building; landscapes matters classes; plant clinics; crash courses in gardening, and much more. She had a guest column in the NewsLeader titled Garden Talk and was often called upon to speak at Epcot’s Annual Home and Garden show. She also appeared several times on WTLV 12 First Coast Living.
Becky loved all things related to horticulture and if you ever had the privilege of attending one of her classes or heard her speak at any event, you would have seen her passion and excitement on the subject. She was a wonderful teacher with a fun and bubbly personality. She always remained positive and upbeat, even over the past few years when she wasn’t feeling her best. She was a wonderful asset to the County and will be greatly missed.
The family has indicated that a celebration of life will be held in the fall to coincide with the opening of the new County Extension Office which is currently being constructed on Miner Rd. The Board has already dedicated the naming of the facility in her honor.
In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that her book, Zoe’s Mission, be purchased in her memory. It is available at the monthly landscape matters classes hosted by the Extension volunteers and their bi-annual plant sales. Proceeds go directly to the Master Gardener Program.