Johnny Ray Jenkins

Johnny Ray Jenkins, of Palestine, Texas, passed into the arms of our Lord and Savior on Thursday, the 13th day of November 2025, at the age of 75, surrounded by his loving family. Born on the 24th day of March 1950, in Rusk, Texas, Johnny was the cherished son of Jewel George Jenkins and Jacy Bufford Jenkins. He graduated from Rusk High School in 1968. His early years in Rusk were filled with the warmth of a close-knit community and the love of a devoted family.
A faithful member of Crockett Road Church of Christ, Mr. Jenkins lived his life as a testament to his love for the Lord. His home, which he shared with his loving wife Carolyn, was a haven of warmth and welcome, always open to friends, family, and those in need.
Mr. Jenkins worked as a loyal employee for Big Brown/Steam Electric Station in Fairfield for 43 years, retiring in 2014 as a power plant control room operator. He trained many employees as operators during his 40 years in the control room.
Mr. Jenkins's legacy is one of love and service. His gentle demeanor and generous spirit touched the lives of many, leaving behind a trail of heartfelt memories and stories of his compassion. The way he lived his life, with open arms and an open heart, will continue to inspire those who were fortunate enough to have known him. His infectious laugh and constant big smile will be missed by everyone.
He was preceded in death by his parents Jewel and Jacy Jenkins; sister and brother-in-law, Marjorie and George Christian; brother, David Jenkins; and brothers-in-law Gene Gardner, Hugh Simer, and Cleaon Wright; and beloved-in-laws, Carlis and Ruby King.
A devoted husband, father, brother, and grandfather, Mr. Jenkins is survived by his beloved wife of 57 years, Carolyn Jenkins. Together, they built a life filled with joy and purpose. Their son, Billy Ray "Bill" Jenkins and his wife Gina, daughter, Cynthia Lyn "Cindy" Oden and her husband Jeff, were the pride of Mr. Jenkins's life. He was a cherished brother to Betty Gardner, Jean Simer, and brothers and sisters-in-law, Betty Wright, Dwayne and Cassie King and Danny King. His role as 'Grumps' to his adored grandchildren, Allison and Andrew Taylor, Jake Jenkins and fiancé Addie Grace McDonald, Justin and Kylee Oden, and Michaela Oden, was one he held dear to his heart, and his presence in their lives will be profoundly missed. He also leaves behind many nieces, nephews, cousins, other family members, and friends.
Friends are invited to visit with the family from five o'clock until seven o'clock in the evening on Friday, the 14th day of November 2025 at Rhone Funeral Home.
Funeral services to honor the life of Johnny Jenkins are to be conducted at ten o'clock in the morning on Saturday, the 15th day of November 2025 in the Rhone Memorial Chapel with Dan Manuel and Billy Bean officiating the service. Interment will follow at 2:00 p.m. at Mt. Zion Cemetery, 6393 FM 241, Alto, Texas.
For those unable to attend the service, you may watch the livestream on the Rhone Funeral Home Facebook page.
Those honored to serve as pallbearers are his grandsons and nephews.
The family extends their heartfelt thanks to the special caregivers of Dogwood Trails and Hospice of East Texas.
In lieu of flowers, memorials in memory of Johnny Jenkins can be directed towards Give Me the Bible, Hospice of East Texas, Alzheimer's Association, or a charity of your choice.
Funeral services for Johnny Ray Jenkins are in care of Rhone Funeral Home, 3900 S. State Highway 19, Palestine, Texas. Please visit his online memorial tribute at www.rhonefuneralhome.com, where words of comfort and condolence may be shared electronically with his family.
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