News Summary
The Bowling Green community mourns the loss of beloved local veteran John E. Jenkins, who passed away on April 1, 2025. Jenkins was a dedicated family man and cherished member of the community, leaving behind a legacy filled with love, laughter, and strong connections. His funeral service is set for April 8, providing a time for friends and family to pay their respects.
Bowling Green Community Remembers Beloved Veteran John E. Jenkins
Bowling Green, KY – The vibrant community of Bowling Green is coming together to mourn the loss of a cherished local veteran and family man, John E. Jenkins, who passed away on April 1, 2025. His absence leaves a significant void in the hearts of many who knew him, as he was not just a veteran but a loving husband, a proud father, and a doting grandfather.
A Life Filled with Love and Laughter
Born on October 18, 1962, in Bowling Green, Jenkins graduated from Warren East High School before heading off to Western Kentucky University to earn his degree in psychology. With a passion for serving others, he enlisted in the U.S. Army where he proudly served his country. After completing his military duty, he married his sweetheart, Sharon Jenkins, at just 24 years of age, and the couple spent over 37 years together.
The pair built a beautiful family, welcoming three daughters into their lives: Heather Jenkins, Whitney Moore, and Ashley Settle. As if that weren’t enough to fill their home with joy, the family blossomed further with the arrival of eight beloved grandchildren: Annabelle, John Ryan, Adelyn, Alexandria, Nick, Aurora, Ava, and Jackson. Let’s not forget about LiLi, the family’s spoiled little dog, who brought endless joy to Jenkins’ life.
A Personality that Shone Bright
Those who were lucky enough to know John will remember his contagious smile and his unique ability to fill a room with laughter. He genuinely never met a stranger and had an outstanding talent for connecting with people from all walks of life. Whether it was his passion for Kentucky Wildcats basketball, or his love for gardening and music, Jenkins always enjoyed sharing his interests with others.
In addition, his fascination with genealogy led him on a lifelong journey of discovery, where he continually enriched his knowledge and shared his findings with family and friends. His enthusiasm for learning was infectious, and it inspired many around him to pursue their own interests with the same vigor.
A Community’s Grief
John Jenkins was not just a man; he was a beloved member of the community. The news of his passing struck a chord with many who had the pleasure of knowing him. Jenkins was preceded in death by his parents, John Harley Jenkins and Mary Taylor, as well as a sister, Sylvia Tooley, and three brothers, David Jenkins, Jr. Jenkins, and William Taylor.
Even in his passing, he leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and a strong sense of community. He is also survived by several nieces, nephews, aunts, uncles, and cousins, all of whom will remember him fondly.
Farewell to a True Friend
For those wishing to pay their respects, Jenkins’ funeral service is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Tuesday at Hardy & Son Funeral Home, Bowling Green Chapel. Prior to the service, there will be a visitation from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the funeral home, allowing friends and family to come together during this difficult time.
As Bowling Green gathers to celebrate John’s life, it’s clear that he will forever hold a special place in the hearts of everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. He may now be gone, but the memories he created and the love he shared with those around him will remain forever alive.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Bowling Green Community Honors John E. Jenkins
WKU Baseball Players Receive Preseason All-Conference Honors
Additional Resources
- Hardy & Son Funeral Homes: John Jenkins Obituary
- Google Search: John E. Jenkins
- Legacy.com: John Hayes Obituary
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Veterans
- People: Mater Dei President Resigns Amid Hazing Allegations
- Google News: Bowling Green Community Remembers
