James Jenkins

Jenkins, James Jaye - Age 78, of Goodrich, died August 10, 2021. Jaye was born on November 2, 1942 in Montgomery, Alabama to Basil and Ella “Marshall” Jenkins. On December 21, 1963 he wed his best friend and beloved bride of 57 years, Sandra (Bradshaw) Jenkins. Together they raised three children and many dogs.
Jaye grew to manhood in Texas, graduating from Texas A&M in 1964. He was an Aggie through and through, flying his flag on game days, and regaling all who would listen with tales of shenanigans from his years in the Corps of Cadets.
He devoted his energies to his 31-year career with Motors Insurance Corporation and happily retired to Goodrich, Michigan in 1998.
As an avid reader and amateur handyman, there wasn’t a day he didn’t have a book or tool in hand. Jaye was an active member of his community and church, serving his Lord where he could. He was quick with a joke and took his duty as family photographer very seriously (much to the chagrin of those of us who are camera shy). Through the years, Jaye had many friendships that he maintained with letters, emails, and Christmas cards. Once a friend to Jaye, always a friend. He was very good at keeping in touch. Later in life he developed dementia, which took many of these gifts from him but he never lost his ready smile, gentle spirit, and easy-going attitude — always up for an adventure.
Jaye was released from the trials of this earth on August 10, 2021 with his family at his side. He was preceded in death by his parents and granddaughter, Courtney. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by his beloved wife, Sandra (Bradshaw) Jenkins; his children, Tracy (Markael) Matteson, James Jenkins, and Brian (Darlene) Jenkins; his brother-in-law, Jimmy (Cathy) Bradshaw; his 11 grandchildren and 4 great-grandchildren; and his friends.
The family wishes to thank all of his caregivers at The Pines of Goodrich for their tender care and The Medical Team Flint Hospice for assisting in Jaye’s last days.
Friends are invited to join the family in celebrating Jaye’s life during visitation from 11:00–2:00 on Saturday, August 14 at Sharp Funeral Home & Cremation Center, 6063 Fenton Rd, Grand Blanc, MI; and for funeral services at 2:00 on the 14th, also at Sharp Funeral Home. Jaye will be laid to rest with military honors at 9:30 on Tuesday, August 17 at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI. Tributes may be shared at www.sharpfuneralhomes.com