Donald Jenkins

Donald Marvin Jenkins was born in Robbins, IL. on February 19th, 1938 to loving parents Lucille and Tollie Jenkins. He was the third child of six boys that would be born into the family. Donald was raised in a religious family and began citing Bible verses as a young boy. He attended Dwight D. Eisenhower High School where he excelled in sports. He was most proud of his basketball skills since he was one of the first young men of color to start on the Eisenhower varsity squad. He tried his hand at football and track as well during his high school years. He was accompanied on many of his academic and athletic endeavors by his siblings Maurice and Leonard. The Jenkins boys had a prominent and respectable reputation in their south suburban community.
After High School Donald was employed in the steel industry working alongside his father Tollie. After several years he married his high school sweetheart Rochelle Laster in 1959. The couple had two children, Donald Marvin Jenkins Jr. and Daniel Todd Jenkins. The family resided in Robbins for several years before moving to Freeport, IL. where Donald began his 35 year career with the Goodyear Tire Company (Kelly Springfield). He met his second wife Lynette Jenkins shortly before his retirement. They raised two children together, Kelly Gaston and Brandon Reed.
He retired in 1998 and moved to Evanston, IL. Donald was an avid Northwestern University Wildcat supporter. In 2008, DJ relocated to Fargo, ND where he became a staple in the local community by counseling and mentoring many people young and old.
Donald was an avid runner and athletic enthusiast most of his life. He always worked out and even ran in several long distance races.
He was a Chicago Golden Gloves boxer winner in his early twenties. Donald even had a tryout with the Chicago Bulls basketball team. He worked out lifting weights and riding his bike up until his 85th birthday.
Donald renewed his Christian faith and was passionate about ministering to his family and friends up until his passing. He received his heavenly wings on Jan. 10th, 2025 resting comfortably in Fargo.
Donald leaves behind his loving children, Donald Jenkins Jr. (Angela), Daniel Todd Jenkins (Mary Grace), Kelly Gaston and Brandon Reed. He will be lovingly remembered by his ten grandchildren (Alex, Steven, Alisa, Tahvia, Neena, Olivia, Amari, Elisha, Heiden and Llyr) and six great grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his parents, siblings and ex-wife Lynette.
Memorial Services will be held 10:30 a.m. Friday, February 7, 2025 at Carl E. Ponds Funeral Home Inc. 200 N. Johnston Ave.
Doors will be open from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service.
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