Leah Jordan, co-owner and founder of Pearl's Books in Fayetteville, Ark., died on July 14.
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Daniel Jordan, her husband and co-owner of Pearl's Books, wrote on social media that she "was the spark and driving force behind making this place come together. I have always been a little hesitant to jump into new things, but her energy, enthusiasm, and courage are infectious. She loved this store with her whole heart, and put so much love and care into everything about it: paint color, chalk signage, shelf talkers, hiring wonderful people, rugs, furniture and fixtures, it was all Leah. If there's something you love about Pearl's, you can thank Leah."
Jordan also thanked the Pearl's Books staff, writing: "I owe a huge thanks to the beautiful folks who work here who have kept this place going while Leah has been sick. Hallee, Darinda, and Amanda have been here from the start. Julia, Schuyler, Robin, Marinna, and Justin have been added to staff and I can’t imagine Pearl’s being the place it is without each of their influence."
"Pearl’s is a legacy that proves that Leah’s love for reading, community, and Fayetteville particularly will live on long after her physical body," Jordan continued. "I love you all so much."
Per 5NewsOnline, other Arkansas independent bookstores offered tribute to Leah Jordan.
Dickson Street Bookshop, also in Fayetteville, wrote of Jordan: "Our book-loving community just suffered a huge loss. And our hearts are broken for Daniel and our sweet friends at Pearl's. Please support them whenever you can. May Leah's legacy live on for many, many years to come."
"Our hearts are heavy with the loss of a true powerhouse in the Northwest Arkansas literary world," Bookish in Fort Smith, Ark., wrote. "Her passion built more than just a bookstore; it built a haven for readers. Our book community is better because of the work Leah did. To the Pearl’s Books family: as we mourn alongside you, we will celebrate the incredible life of Leah. We will be thinking of you during this difficult time."
A memorial service for Jordan will be held this afternoon at St. Paul's Episcopal Church in Fayetteville. In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to a preferred charity in Leah Jordan's name.