Jordan L. "Bud" Biscardo

Jordan L. “Bud” Biscardo, 85, of Alexandria, passed away on Sunday, October 1, 2023 at his residence following a spirited battle with cancer.

A Pittsburgh native, Bud achieved noteworthy professional success, but any proper remembrance of him must begin with his top priority: his family. Throughout his adult life, he always put them first – and while that may sound trite, it absolutely is true. He spared no effort and no expense to help brighten the days and improve the lives of his children, grandchildren, nephews, and other family members. Without exception, when he was asked for assistance, he gave it with supportiveness (though he usually didn’t wait for the request).

After growing up in the inner city and graduating from prestigious Central Catholic High School, Bud served in the United States Army, from which he received an honorable discharge. (He occasionally mentioned that one of his claims to fame is that Elvis Presley was his overseas relief.) He later worked as a rank-and-file member of Amalgamated Transit Union Local 85 before pivoting to a career with the United Way beginning in 1971.

In 1979, Bud earned a major promotion, becoming Director of Labor Participation for the United Way of America (at the time, the world’s largest private, volunteer philanthropic agency). The new job required his family’s relocation to the Washington, D.C. region, but the investment proved worthwhile: Bud stayed at his post until retiring in December 2013 at age 75. Along the way, he became an accomplished public speaker, a tireless volunteer in his community, and a highly regarded leader and colleague. His efforts supported America’s working families, the trade union movement, and people in need.

Throughout his life, Bud was an avid sports fan, particularly when it came to rooting for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Much of his attraction to the teams and games stemmed from sharing the experiences with his kids and grandkids, whether that meant attending the events, watching them on television together, or simply calling or texting during the games. (Never let it be said that you can’t teach an old dog new tricks: Bud almost wore out the emojis on his iPhone when the Steelers were winning.)

In that vein, his other self-described claim to fame is that he attended the “Immaculate Reception” NFL playoff game in 1972. The key play in that contest between the Steelers and the Oakland Raiders later was voted the greatest play in NFL history.

Survivors include his biological sons, Jordan (and wife, Linda) and Joseph Biscardo (Sarah); adopted son Kelly O’Connell (Nancy); grandsons Jordan, Anthony, and Roman Biscardo; and younger brother Louis Biscardo.

For decades, Bud’s mantra was, “Life is good. Not all the time, but life is good.” In that spirit, please know that he was fully aware – and fully at peace – as his end drew near. By his own description, he had lived a full, fulfilling life, and was ready to move on.