Gary Michael “Mike” Jenkins, 72 passed away unexpectedly on December 23, 2024 at CaroMont Regional Medical Center. He was a native of Gaston County, born on October 23, 1952 to the late Betty Blackwell Jenkins and Charles Bost Jenkins. Mike was retired from Duke Power.
Mike enjoyed playing the guitar, racing, gaming and his many trips to the beach, where he enjoyed wine, smoothies, and margaritas. He also loved the UNC Tar Heels.
He is survived by his devoted children: Christopher Thomas Jenkins (Brandi) and Charles Michael Jenkins (Christine); grandchildren, Owen Jenkins (Savanna) and Olivia Jenkins; girlfriend and longtime companion, Lorrie Hall and her children, (Justin, Ben and Dale) and a sister, Martha "Marty" Blake; mother of his children, Barbara Auten, remained a beloved friend.
To honor the life of Mike, visitation services will be held on January 3, 2025 at Withers & Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation. The family will receive friends from 12:30 p.m., until 1:30 p.m. at the funeral home. A Graveside service will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Gaston Memorial Park in the Garden of Gethsemane.
Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.
Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com
To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.
2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC 28054
Memories and condolences can be left on the obituary at the funeral home website.


What kind of arrangement is appropriate, where should you send it, and when should you send an alternative?
Read more
We'll help you find the right words to comfort your family member or loved one during this difficult time.
Read more
Information and advice to help you cope with the death of someone important to you.
Read moreIf you’re in charge of handling the affairs for a recently deceased loved one, this guide offers a helpful checklist.
Read more
Legacy's Linnea Crowther discusses how families talk about causes of death in the obituaries they write.
Read more
You may find these well-written obituary examples helpful as you write about your own family.
Read more
These free blank templates make writing an obituary faster and easier.
Read more
Some basic help and starters when you have to write a tribute to someone you love.
Read more