09/04/2026
In loving memory of Theodore Jenkins:
Our beloved husband, father and grandfather passed away peacefully on Aug. 17, 2026, at the age of 94 in Fairbanks, Alaska.
Theodore was born Nov. 28, 1931, to Viva and William Jenkins in Bethlehem, Arkansas. He stayed there until he was 17 years old and then decided to see the world; he left on a bicycle. He joined the U.S. Army in 1952 and was sent to Japan during the Korean War.
Because he was so tall, the military had difficulty finding a uniform to fit him. The Army tried to get him to pay for his own uniform, but "it didn't work." The Army paid for it.
He was also stationed in Texas, Kansas, Alabama, Oklahoma, Japan, Germany and in Alaska in 1964 and again in 1974. He worked on Fort Wainwright as an auto mechanic in the Auto Hobby Shop.
Theodore retired in 1978 and made Alaska his home. He never stopped working and continued on in an active civilian life. He had always enjoyed driving his commanding officers, and after retirement he drove buses for the military for many years. He was given an award in 1999 for "Surviving Over 112,118 Rough Alaska Miles in Fog, Ice & Snow."
Later years were filled with yard and garden work, house and car repairs, and taking care of grandchildren. He was known for his resourcefulness, hard work and integrity. Some called him the "Gentle Giant."
In an interview by John Spitzberg, Theodore was asked for the lessons he'd learned after 90 years of life. He smiled his broad all-encompassing way and said:
1. Don't lend money for interest because it is unfair to charge interest to anyone who cannot afford it.
2. Be earnest and don't steal anything from anyone ever.
3. Everyone should have more than one trade.
4. Learn to be resourceful and self-sufficient, "and no matter how long I live I will always believe this."
5. Everyone should get along with everyone else and have no enemies.
Theodore was preceded in death by his parents, Viva and William Jenkins; his siblings Exie Hardiman, Elton Jenkins, Bessie Hill, Norma Jenkins and Tessie Warren; His son TJ Jenkins Jr.; and grandchildren Nicholas, Breanna and Alicia Jenkins.
He leaves to cherish his memories his loving wife, Mary Jenkins; his children Rudy, Donnita, Trannie, Shane and Sean; and his grandchildren David, Isaac, Anastasia, Ila, Norianna, O'Jaydien, Calina, Nicholas and Ka'Shon. He leaves behind a host of nieces, nephews, and cousins as well.
His service will be held Sept. 4 at the Legacy Chapel of Chimes Funeral Home at 415 Illinois St.
Visitation will be from 12-1 p.m.. The service will start at 1 pm. A reception will follow from 2-4 pm at the JP Jones community center on 2400 Rickert St. (Guests are welcome to bring small refreshments.)
View Theodore Jenkins's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.
