Robert "Bob" Jenkins

Robert "Bob" Leon Jenkins, devoted husband, father, grandfather, engineer, outdoorsman, and lifelong mechanical enthusiast, passed away on November 27, 2025, in Grenada, Mississippi. Born on June 23, 1936, in Dallas, Texas, Bob lived a remarkable 89 years marked by resilience, curiosity, service, and an unshakeable love for family.

Bob was the son of Henry Hobson Jenkins and Esther Symonds. Though born in Dallas, he spent his childhood in El Paso before the family relocated to San Antonio. There, he attended TMI (Texas Military Institute) through elementary and high school-an experience that helped shape his discipline, leadership, and quiet determination. He later earned a degree in Engineering from the University of Texas, laying the foundation for an influential career in manufacturing and industrial leadership.

At age six, Bob contracted polio, developing a disability that resulted in a lifelong brace on his right leg. What might have limited others only strengthened Bob's resolve. He refused to allow physical challenges to define him or slow him down. He became an avid scuba diver, excelled in tennis and table tennis, and developed a broad and deep fascination with anything that ran on an engine. Fast European cars, boats, and complex mechanical systems delighted him, and he could often be found tinkering, repairing, and mastering any machine he encountered.

Bob met the love of his life, Betsy, while living in Spirit Lake, Iowa, and working for McQuay Perfex. They married in 1975, beginning a 50-year partnership full of adventure, laughter, and shared purpose. In 1977, Bob and his family moved to Grenada, Mississippi, where Bob became the plant manager of the local McQuay plant. Under his capable leadership, the plant thrived. Over the years, as the facility changed ownership-from McQuay to Schneider General, and later to Lennox International-Bob continued to rise, eventually becoming Executive Vice President of Lennox International and COO of Heatcraft and Lennox Global Ltd. His career was marked by integrity, innovation, and a deep respect for the people he led.

Upon retiring in 1998, Bob and Betsy embraced life on their farm in Grenada. Together they poured heart and effort into cultivating the land, creating a beautiful outdoor retreat where they enjoyed hunting, farming, and welcoming family. Their shared passion for cars led them to join The Great Race Rally, spending weeks traveling the country behind the wheel, surrounded by fellow enthusiasts and unforgettable landscapes.

Bob was preceded in death by his son, Bret Jenkins. He is survived by his loving wife of 50 years, Betsy Jenkins; his sons Dale (Sue) Jenkins and Lee (Julie) Jenkins; and five grandchildren who brought him immense pride and joy: Alexandra, Grey, Katie, Casady, and McKenna.

Bob Jenkins will be remembered for his unwavering resolve, his sharp mind, his generosity, and his quiet but powerful spirit. Whether in the boardroom, the workshop, the driver's seat, or the fields of his farm, he carried himself with purpose and grace. His legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the family he cherished, and the many places where his leadership and craftsmanship made a lasting mark.

He will be dearly missed and lovingly remembered.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 2:00 PM Friday, December 5, 2025 at McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service. Family and friends will gather one hour prior to the service Friday at McKibben and Guinn.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to St Nicholas' Treasure Chest C/O All Saints Episcopal Church, 469 S Main St., Grenada, MS 38901 or at the following link: https://www.allsaintsgrenada.org/give/

Online condolences may be expressed to the family at www.mckibbenandguinn.com.

Arrangements have been entrusted to McKibben and Guinn Funeral Service in Grenada, (662-307-2694).