Lila Delores Jenkins

Lila D. Jenkins, lovingly known to many as “Aunt Lila” or “Aunt Bea,” passed away peacefully on November 16, 2025, in Tribune, Kansas, at the age of 78. She was born on October 14, 1947, in Wickes, Arkansas, to James Nolan Jenkins and Ora Minnie Demorest Jenkins.

Lila grew up in a large and loving family. She was preceded in death by her parents; her siblings Lou Ann, Laverne, Loyd Nolan (Marsha) Jenkins, Lady Lou Jenkins, Laurel (Joel) Miller, James Lacey (Joy) Jenkins, Lily Jane (John) Bell, Lora Fern (Gene) Taylor; sisters-in-law Marthalyn Jenkins and Reba Jenkins; and brother-in-law Jim Conley. Each of them remained dear to her heart throughout her life.

After graduating from high school, she went to live with her sister, Lady Lou Jenkins where they created an abundance of adventures as they loved on the many children they taught.

For the past 29 years, Lila made her home with her nephew and niece, Bruce and Carol Jenkins, who cared for her with deep affection. She is also survived by their children Dr. Chad & Kari Jenkins and sons Adam, Corbyn, Landan, and Peyton Jenkins; as well as Leah (Benjamin, deceased) Jackson and her children, Lance Smith and Bryleigh Smith.

She often said she had a gaggle of nieces and nephews who have beautiful memories of their ‘favorite’ aunt. They include Loyd Jenkins,Jr, Kevin Jenkins (deceased), Loretta Jenkins Roberts, Crystal Jenkins Steinhoff, Paul Miller, Susie Miller Jones, Pat Conley, James Jenkins, Neal Jenkins, Jason Jenkins, Thomas Jenkins, Rhonda Taylor Todd, Don Taylor, Richard Taylor, Mark Taylor & all their beautiful families! Lila cherished every member of her family including cousins from coast to coast and they, in turn, treasured the warmth, humor, and kindness she brought into their lives.

Lila built a meaningful career working in the Landis, North Carolina schools, where she spent many years assisting kindergarten and first-grade students. Her patience, gentle spirit, and joyful presence left a lasting impact on countless young children. She also worked as a skilled seamstress in the drapery industry in North Carolina, a craft she approached with creativity and dedication.

Those who knew Lila will remember her for her generous heart, her steadfast love of God and family, and her ability to bring laughter to those around her.

Lila’s life was a gift to all who loved her. Her memory will continue to shine brightly in the hearts of her family, friends, and all who were blessed to know her including her concert going, game playing buddies Ruby, Catherine, and Valerie and her side kicks and travel partners Jack and Jean Becker.

May she rest in peace.

Services to be determined