James Michael "Mike" Jenkins

James Michael "Mike" Jenkins, 74, of Sweetwater, passed away peacefully on November 23, 2025, at Sweetwater Hospital after a brief battle with lung cancer. He is preceded in death by his father, Frank Jenkins; mother, Reva Thomas Jenkins; siblings Ev Jo Wilson, Dick Jenkins, and Merle Ann Butera; and niece Kathryn Woodruff.

He is survived by his wife of almost 50 years, Donna Jenkins; daughter Shannon Wilson and partner Ann Clark; daughter and son-in-law Christie and Jason Pippin; son and daughter-in-law Michael and Courtney Jenkins. He is also survived by his grandchildren Conner Pippin and Allianna Shofner, Cameron Pippin, Jaden Jenkins, Kylie Jenkins, and Bryn Jenkins; siblings Butch Jenkins, Jane Viar, and Frankie Houser; and a special niece who was like a daughter, Sarah Beth Woodruff, along with her children. He leaves behind many other nieces, nephews, relatives, and friends.

Mike served the City of Sweetwater for 40 years as a fireman and then as a law enforcement officer. He served as Chief of Police for 14 years and Assistant Chief for 15, holding numerous roles and receiving many commendations throughout his career. In 1992, he had the honor of attending the FBI National Academy in Quantico for an intensive 11-week training. After retirement, he continued his commitment to public safety by serving with the Meth Task Force.

He will be remembered for his deep love for his family in blue and for the fair, steady, and kind way he treated the citizens of the town he called home his entire life. His family will forever cherish how wholeheartedly he supported his grandchildren in all their interests and events, as well as his love for spending time with family, camping, and fixing things.

The family would like to extend their utmost appreciation to the nurses at SHA for going above and beyond in providing excellent care. Special thanks also go to Dr. Chris Shamblin for his compassion and support for both Mike and his family.

The family will receive friends on Friday, November 28, 2025 at Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, from 5:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. with a celebration of life service to follow at 7:00 P.M. in Kyker's Chapel with Pastor: Mitchell Payne, Michael Jenkins, Pastor: Jeff Jenkins officiating. Interment 11:00 A.M. Saturday in the Sweetwater Memorial Park. Kyker Funeral Homes, Sweetwater, in charge of arrangements. www.kykerfuneralhomes.com