Howard Allen Jenkins, 87
August 24, 1937 — March 5, 2025
Howard Allen Jenkins, 87, of Columbus, MS (New Hope community), passed away peacefully at home, embraced by the love of his family, on March 5, 2025. Howard Allen Jenkins was born on August 24, 1937, in Kosciusko, MS, to Frank W. Jenkins and Tommie Ellington Jenkins. He spent most of his childhood on the Jenkins Farm near McAdams, MS, where he learned the value of hard work and the beauty of rural life.
Howard attended McAdams High School, where he graduated in May of 1955 with a close-knit class of 12 students. Over the next 70 years, Howard maintained friendships with many of his classmates, attending reunions and keeping in touch with those who had become lifelong friends. On a whim, Howard joined the Air Force on August 1, 1956, a decision that would shape the rest of his life. His time in the service was both challenging and rewarding, as it took him to 10 bases across 4 different countries over the span of 20 years. Howard often spoke about how his military service broadened his world, exposing him to different cultures and forging relationships with people from all walks of life. He believed it gave him a sense of discipline and responsibility, and instilled in him the values of service, loyalty, and sacrifice. For Howard, the Air Force was more than just a career—it was a turning point that not only changed his perspective on life but also shaped the man he became.
Howard is survived by his devoted wife, Linda Morris Jenkins of Columbus, MS; his sons, Allen Jenkins (Donna) of Columbus, MS; Kenny Jenkins (Fran) of Garland, TX; Steve Jenkins (Leann) of Columbus, MS; and Chris Jenkins (Dana) of Columbus, MS. He is also survived by 8 grandchildren, 11 great-grandchildren, and a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins across Mississippi, Arkansas, Tennessee, Texas, Ohio, and California.
Howard is preceded in death by his parents, Frank W. Jenkins and Tommie Ellington Jenkins; sister, Nina Vivian Carson; brother, James David Jenkins and sister, Frances Lacey Temple.
Howard Jenkins was truly a selfless person, always putting others’ needs before his own without hesitation. He devoted his entire life to the service of others, always offering a helping hand, a listening ear, and a heart full of compassion. The kind of generosity that Howard showed to his family, friends, church and community has left a lasting impact on everyone who knew him.
Visitation will be held Sunday, March 9th, 2025, at Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church from 5:00 PM-8:00 PM and on Monday March 9, 2025, at 10:00 AM.
Funeral Service will be held on Monday, March 10, 2025, at Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church at 11:00 AM. with Pastor Justin Grifford and Brother Charlie Studdard officiating. Burial will follow at Beersheba Cemetery
Pallbearers will be Allen Jenkins, Kenny Jenkins, Steve Jenkins, Chris Jenkins, Mike Barham, and Bill Heywood. Honorary pallbearers will be the Columbus East Lions Club members and Elders of Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church past and present.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made in memory of Howard to either Columbus East Lions Club or Beersheba Cumberland Presbyterian Church in Columbus, MS.
Cleveland Funeral Home and Glenfield Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the arrangements of Mr. Howard Jenkins.
Please follow the funeral home link above for further information, or to send online condolences or memorial gifts.
