Harry Jenkins

Harry Jenkins, the second son of the late Charles Jenkins Sr. and Sarah Jenkins, was born on June 2, 1937 in Cincinnati, Ohio. He was the fourth of eleven children. Harry early distinguished himself as a child who was both bright and beautiful in character. His curious mind was as inventive as a young George Washington Carver. While other boys saved money to buy gum and candy, Harry used his money to buy a microscope, a telescope, and batteries. Harry loved to read. At an early age, he read various kinds of books due to the fact that his father provided an extensive library for the children. Harry read books that included content on the Pharaohs of ancient Egypt, books written by Ellen G. White, and books about the world of science. One of his favorite books was the fairy tale, “Molly Whuppie and the Giant.” Harry’s early education was at the Shiloh Seventh-Day Adventist church school in Cincinnati. He later graduated from Old Woodward High School. After graduating from high school with honors, he enrolled in the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a Bachelors of Science degree in Math and Physics, and later a third Bachelors of Science degree in Engineering. In addition to a keen mind, God blessed Harry with athletic ability. As a child, he was a member of a children’s tumbling team. Later on as a young man, he became a member of one of the early Shiloh basketball teams. Harry also loved to roller skate, an activity which he continued for many years. Weight lifting was also a regular part of his exercise routine. After finishing college, he began a rewarding career in Engineering. His career included working for Formica, Proctor and Gamble, the United States Government, and Metters Industries. After retiring from Metters Industries, Harry worked for over ten years at Goodwill of Columbus providing care for the developmentally disabled. Harry and his wife Ernestine also worked for Dungarvin Ohio as foster parents for over twenty years as well. On December 17, 1961, Harry married Ernestine Larkin. Their union produced two beautiful children, Harry Stewart Jenkins, their son, and Angela Darlene Jenkins, their daughter. Between this ambitious scientist and the enthusiastic literature evangelist that he married, their home was a center for Christ for decades. Harry and Ernestine were firm believers in Christian education. Both children attended Adventists schools including Cincinnati Junior Academy as young children, later Pine Forge Academy for high school, and finally Oakwood College. Harry was a true soldier of the Lord. For many years, he was a faithful and active member of the Shiloh Seventh-Day Adventist Church in Cincinnati, Ohio. Church offices that Harry served in were Elder, Deacon, and Lay Activity Leader. He also assisted with the Missionary Volunteer Society, the Pathfinders, and a variety of independent ministries. From his youth, he was known for his sweet melodic tenor voice in the Choralaires, directed by Elder St. Clair Phipps. He was also known for his solo voice which he used to perform on many occasions throughout the city. In addition, he was a member of and attended both Ephesus and Central Seventh-Day Adventist Churches in Columbus, Ohio. Harry was a kind and caring person. Over the years, he often sacrificed in various ways to help both family members and friends in time of need. He was a person that could be trusted and counted on through thick and thin. During Harry’s illness over the past few years, his wife Ernestine, faithfully carried on their personal ministries while tirelessly working for his recovery. The Lord revived Harry several times to continue the toils of this life, but on March 28th, 2014, he called upon this faithful warrior to lay down his weapons to await His return in peace. Preceding Harry in death are his siblings, Charles Jenkins (wife Beatrice), Loretta Lee (husband Rudolph deceased), Sarah Johnson (husband Joe), and David Jenkins. Harry leaves to mourn his great loss, his wife, Ernestine and two children, Harry Stewart and Angela Darlene Jenkins, he also leaves behind five grandchildren, Christopher Thomas, Alexander Thomas, Matthew Thomas, Madeline Thomas, and Allegra Jenkins; six siblings, Marlene Jason (husband Don deceased), Janet Lyte (husband Simeon deceased), Michael K. Jenkins and wife Karen, Catherine Burks, Pamela Perkins and husband Mike, Yvonne Diaz-Vazquez and husband Domingo,; adopted and special foster children, Nathaniel Jenkins and children, Richard Jenkins and children, India Jenkins and children, Jason Brooks, Jemia Brooks and children, Larissa Porter and children, Deshauna White and children, Sherrod White, a host of other relatives, foster children and grandchildren, and friends.