Dr. Richard Ernest Jenkins Jr.

Dr. Richard Ernest "Dick" Jenkins Jr., of Onley, VA, passed away peacefully on Monday, August 18, 2025, at Commonwealth Senior Living on the Eastern Shore in Onancock, VA. He was 82.

Born on November 4, 1942, in Kinston, NC, Dick was the son of Richard Ernest Jenkins Sr. and Essie Mae (Hardison) Jenkins. Raised in a family of tobacco farmers, he spent much of his youth in New Bern, NC, where his lifelong curiosity and love of learning first took root.

Dick began his academic journey at East Carolina University, earning his bachelor's degree, before continuing on to the University of Virginia, where he completed both his master's and Ph.D. He believed deeply that education could open doors for everyone, and his life's work reflected that conviction.

In 1968, Dick moved to the Eastern Shore of Virginia to serve as Assistant Professor of History at the Eastern Shore Branch of the University of Virginia, which later became Eastern Shore Community College (ESCC). As the institution transitioned into Virginia's community college system, Dick stepped into leadership, first as Acting Dean of Student Services-a position he held for 25 years, and finally as President from 1996 until his retirement in 2006. Under his guidance, ESCC expanded its programs and facilities, including the creation of the ESCC Foundation and the construction of the Workforce Development Building. His legacy continues to shape education on the Shore today.

Beyond the classroom and campus, Dick was devoted to his community. A steadfast supporter of Camp Occohannock on the Bay, he served for many years as Administrative Chair and board member, helping to foster its growth and outreach. A man of strong faith, he was an active member of Onley United Methodist Church, where he not only worshiped but also served-baking his legendary Red Velvet Cakes for grieving families, tutoring children in after-school programs, and lending a hand wherever he was needed.

A stoic man with a deep voice and strong faith, he loved his family. He met the love of his life, Betsy Brittingham, through mutual friends, and the two married on June 2, 1978, building a life in the community of the ESVA. He loved Lynda Jo, Duane, and Britt more than anything. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather, he treasured his family above all else. He never raised his voice, but his words of wisdom carried great weight, and his steady presence will be remembered by his loved ones, colleagues, students, and countless friends.

Dick is survived by his children, Lynda Jo Johnson Norred and her husband, Steve Norred, of Powder Springs, GA, Duane Johnson of Chesapeake, VA, and Britt Johnson of Virginia Beach, VA; grandchildren, Brandon Johnson, Myranda Johnson (Branden Mercer), Marley Johnson, and Dylan Norred; great-granddaughter, Addi Mercer; nephews, Thomas Jenkins of New Bern, NC, and Ernest Jenkins of Ayden, NC; brother-in-law, James Ritenour of Chesapeake, VA; and a host of dear friends and extended family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife, Betsy Brittingham Jenkins; sister, Mamie Grace Jenkins Ritenour; brother, Robert E. "Tom" Jenkins; and sister-in-law, Mable Jenkins.

A Memorial Service to honor the life of Dr. Jenkins will be held Thursday, September 4, 2025, at 1:00 p.m., at Onley United Methodist Church, with the Reverend Joel Coleman and Pastor Jim Canody officiating.

In lieu of flowers, contributions in his memory may be made to Camp Occohannock on the Bay, 9403 Camp Lane, Belle Haven, VA 23306 (checks payable to "OOTB" and please write "Dick Jenkins" in the memo line) or online donations may be made at bit.ly/campootbdonate (select $0 for no-transaction fee).

Memory tributes may be shared with the family at www.williamsfuneralhomes.com.

Arrangements by the Williams-Onancock Funeral Home.