Chilhowie, VA - James M. "Jim" Jenkins, age 72, was carried to his heavenly home in the arms of his Savior on Friday, January 29, 2021, with loving family by his side.
Jim was born to Zeke and Emma Oliver Jenkins on May 29, 1948 in Piney Flats, TN. He was a graduate of Patrick Henry High School and Virginia Highlands Community College. He proudly served his country in both the United States Navy as well as the United States Army Reserves and was a distinguished Vietnam Veteran. The discipline and patriotism he learned as a soldier never left him, as friends and family will attest. Jim was a long-time employee of American Furniture Company and Epoch. His success in business can be directly attributed to his fierce work ethic and his natural mechanical abilities. His precision and attention to detail were legendary.
Jim was kind, soft spoken and always willing and ready to help out anyone in need. He loved being outdoors and was in his glory when operating farm equipment and tinkering around with any kind of heavy machinery. He loved sports and was an avid supporter of the Chilhowie Warriors and could frequently be found cheering in the stands at Emory & Henry basketball games. He was a devoted family man who loved spending time with his grandchildren and will be dearly missed by his loved ones, who celebrate the fact that he is at peace with his Creator.
Jim is survived by his loving wife, Judy Rhea Jenkins; son, Marcus Jenkins and wife Lavonne; step-daughter, Christy Huff and husband Jeff; granddaughter, Aisleigh Jenkins; grandson, Austin Huff; brothers and distinguished Vietnam Veterans, Earl Jenkins and Chester Jenkins; sister, Irene Prater; and several nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, Vivian Bryant and his faithful, furry companion, Hank.
Funeral services will be conducted at 11:00 am, Tuesday, February 2, 2021, in Calvary Church of Southwest Virginia, 878 Shuler Hollow Rd, Chilhowie, VA, with Pastor Matthew J. Chapman officiating. Military rites will be conducted by the Highlands Veterans Honor Guard. Interment will be held at 2:00 pm, Tuesday, February 2, 2021, in Mt. Rose Cemetery. Serving as pallbearers are Marcus Jenkins, Glenn Bryant, Stanley Bryant, Mark Bryant, Timmy Bryant and Austin Huff along with honorary pallbearer, Jeff Huff. COVID-19 guidelines will be observed.
We would like to offer our sincere thanks and gratitude to the amazing staff of Smyth County Community Hospital, emergency room staff and the critical care doctors and nurses who gave such amazing care to Jim.
Those wishing to share memories or messages of sympathy may do so online by visiting
www.farrisfuneralservice.com.
The family of James M. "Jim" Jenkins is in the care of the Main Street Chapel of Farris Funeral Service, 427 East Main Street, Abingdon, VA 24210 (276) 623-2700