Actor and comedian Leslie Jordan’s beloved mother, Peggy Ann Jordan of Chattanooga, recently died at age 86 with her family by her side.

She was a huge part of the East Tennessee native’s life, and she was introduced to the world when Leslie because a surprise viral sensation sharing Instagram stories — often about his mom —  while they were all quarantined in Chattanooga in 2020.  

Leslie, 67, is known for his roles in “Call Me Kat,” “Will & Grace,” and “American Horror Story.” 

In 2021, he reflected on the comforting reassurance his mom offered when he headed to Los Angeles to begin a career in show business.

“When I got on the bus in 1982 to come to Hollywood, my mother told me, ‘Always know that if it doesn’t work out, you can come back to a standing ovation,’” he said.