John Wilbur Jenkins

John “Jack” Wilbur Jenkins, 97, passed away peacefully on July 15, 2023.  He was born on May 15, 1926, in Baltimore, Maryland to the late James and Marie Jenkins.  Jack’s life was filled with remarkable experiences and cherished memories that will forever remain in the hearts of his family.

After graduating from Mount Saint Joseph High School and the University of Baltimore, he joined the United States Navy during World War II, and was honorably discharged as a Petty Officer 3rd Class in 1946.  Jack then embarked on a successful career at General Motors. For over three decades he contributed his expertise to the company's accounting department and later enjoyed traveling the world with the General Motors Retirees Club.

Outside of work, Jack found joy in pursuing various hobbies and interests.  He had an infectious passion for golf, staying healthy and walking 18 holes on the course into his early 90’s.  In addition to golf, he enjoyed bowling, particularly during seasons playing for the Family Force, a team that included his wife, Jane, his children and their spouses.  Jack also loved card games, honing his skills playing poker with family and friends over the years.  As an avid sports fan, he faithfully supported the Baltimore Colts, Ravens, and Orioles.  More than anything, Jack loved cheering on his grandchildren and great-grandchildren in their many sports and activities.  He loved to sing and never forgot the words to his favorite songs, particularly anything by Frank Sinatra.  Jack was also a devout Christian and an active member of Our Lady of the Fields Catholic Church.  His unwavering commitment to his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, was the foundation upon which the rest of the family built their faith.

Amidst all of Jack’s achievements and hobbies, he was deeply committed to his family as a loving husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother and uncle.  He was the head and the rock of the family, with Jane always by his side.  Together they started many lifelong family traditions such as annual summer vacations to Ocean City and Sunday dinners with the family.  Jack was never happier than when he could spend time with his family, whether it be a long walk on the beach with a loved one or a crab feast with everyone in attendance.  Jack leaves behind a legacy of love and dedication that will continue to inspire future generations.  While we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the incredible life he lived and the profound impact he had on those around him.

Jack was preceded in death by his beloved wife of 69 years, Jane Jenkins.  He is survived by his devoted children, Donna Stewart and her late husband, Herby; Daniel Jenkins and his wife, Suzanne; and Dayle Carpenter and her husband, John; his loving grandchildren, Christopher Jenkins and his wife, Katie; Michael Stewart and his wife, Trish; Janey Queen and her husband, Mike; Brittney Houck and her husband, Adamm; Daniel Carpenter and his wife, Megan; Patrick Carpenter and his wife, Ashley; Jonathan Carpenter and his wife, Skyler; his dear 19 great-grandchildren, Cameron, Taylor, Aiden, Callie, Brooke, Michael, Gavin, Lucy, Christopher, Jack, Paydyn, Max, Bo, Quinn, Bradleigh, Mia, Jett, Josie and Waverly.  Jack was also preceded in death by his siblings, Helen DiStefano, Wilbur Jenkins and Bobby Jenkins.

May the memories of his kindness and love bring solace during this difficult period.  Jack Jenkins will be deeply missed but never forgotten.