Athabelle Darlene Jenkins

Athabelle Darlene Jenkins, age 86, passed away peacefully on February 9, 2026, at Advent Hospital in Celebration, Florida. She was surrounded by her loving family, including her husband Ronald, daughter-in-law Jean, Jean's sister Pam, and grandson Jake.
Darlene, as she preferred to be called, was born on August 26, 1939, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, the fourth of six children to Carl and Vivian Ferguson. She spent her early years in Lansing, MN, before moving with her family to Downers Grove, Illinois, in the mid-1950s, where her father served as Pastor of North Fairview Bible Church. It was in high school that she met her lifelong sweetheart, Ronald Jenkins. Darlene graduated from Downers Grove High School in 1958.
On July 18, 1959, Darlene married Ronald in a ceremony officiated by her father. Together, they were blessed with three sons: Kenneth (who preceded her in death in April 1983), Mark (of Clermont, FL), and Jeff (of Greeley, CO). Darlene was a devoted grandmother to eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. She and Ronald also opened their hearts and home to a five-year-old girl, whose father had passed away, for a year and a half, as well as two boys from Ethiopia, whom they cared for over five years.
Darlene and Ronald moved several times and lived in 5 different states. At each location they became active members of local churches. For 7 years she worked as a secretary and a receptionist at Camp ID-RA-HA-JE, a Christian youth camp in Bailey, CO. She also set up and owned a Christaian book store and gift shop with a dear friend in Wonderview, CO.
Darlene was preceded in death by her parents, two brothers, a sister, and her son.
Darlene loved to travel with Ronald, and together they visited all 50 states and 25 countries. Their travels included a missionary trip to Mali, Africa, where they helped build a church in Bamako, the capital city. Even while traveling they would honor God, evangelize his message, and do their best to follow His example... This deepened the bond they shared.
A woman of deep faith, Darlene cherished reading her Bible and spending time with family and friends. She was known for her love of decorating, always creating a warm and welcoming home. Darlene enjoyed skiing, playing tennis, cooking, and reading. She will be remembered for her kindness, hospitality, and unwavering love for those around her. She will be dearly missed by all who knew her.

You will show me the path of life;
In Your presence is fullness of joy;
At your right hand are pleasures forever more.
Psalm 16:11

Do everything by the grace of God for the Glory of God.