Obituaries

Joe Jenkins

Joe C. Jenkins, 77, originally from Cleveland, Tenn., passed away peacefully in his sleep, Friday May 11, 2018. He was preceded in death by parents, Floyd and Bertha Jenkins; brothers, Ed, Gene, Ray and Bob Jenkins; and sister, Retta Sue Rayburn. Surviving are his wife of 28 years, Christine Jenkins; daughter, Cindy Jenkins Dehner; step-children, Brian (Meredith) Vaughn, Matt (Teri) Vaughn, Tori (Jerry) Vaughn Bayard; sisters, Evelyn Rockholt, Sandra Chastain, Maxine Swafford and brother, Wade Jenkins; two grandchildren; multiple nieces and nephews. The wonderful husband, father and friend, with his gift for remembering names, telling jokes and never meeting a stranger, will be missed by all, especially his constant “furry” companion Penny who was always with him. Joe was an employee of Magic Chef for 44 years before retiring to Florida where he was able to enjoy fishing, scalloping, gardening, reading, and helping friends and neighbors. His love for dancing followed him throughout his life from ballroom dancing to square dancing, and he was a member of the Salty Bobbers Square Dance Club. While in Cleveland/Chattanooga, he graduated from Bradley County High School, was a past member of Toast Masters, Outdoor Adventure and St. Martin’s Episcopal Church where he was elected to the vestry. He had also been a youth leader, choir member and played hand bells. In Florida, he was on the mission board of St. Alban’s Episcopal Church in Chiefland, continued making his folk art, and enjoyed his love of fiction and old Westerns where he could name every actor on screen. He and his daughter’s love for music was a special bond between the two including their recently attended 18th yearly trip to Merlefest in North Carolina. Celebration of life will be held, Saturday, June 2, 2018, at St.Martin’s Episcopal Church in Chattanooga, Tenn. with visitation beginning at 10 a.m., and the service at 11 a.m. In Lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the American Heart Association or PAWS of Steinhatchee, P.O.Box 47, Steinhatchee, Fla. 32359.

Published May 29, 2018

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