William Lee Jenkins

William Lee Jenkins passed away peacefully Wednesday, June 4, 2025, at his home in Mexico Beach, Florida.

Throughout his life, Bill embraced every opportunity to serve and connect with others. He was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother and friend. His kindness and generosity touched the lives of many in every community he called home.

Bill's early years were marked by a love of sports and teamwork, qualities that shaped both his character and career. At Elizabethtown High School, he excelled in football and basketball, later continuing his athletic journey at the University of Kentucky and pros. He served in the U.S. Army from 1967 to 1972, a chapter of his life he held with quiet pride.

In Elizabethtown and Mexico Beach, Bill gave freely of his time. He volunteered with E'town Parks and Recreation, Special Olympics, Sportsman Lake, and Mexico Beach's Turtle Patrol and beach cleanup efforts. During the holidays, he delivered turkeys to families in need through Helping Hand and carried on his father's tradition of playing Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. As a teacher, coach, realtor, city councilman and businessman, Bill brought energy and integrity to every role.

After retiring to Florida, he found joy in working as a carpentry instructor at Wewahitchka High School for 10 years, helping students develop skills and confidence. Bill valued simple pleasures: casting a fishing line, hosting neighborhood shrimp boils, and enjoying the beach he loved so much.

After Hurricane Michael devastated Mexico Beach in 2018, he remained a steady presence, helping neighbors rebuild while delaying his own repairs. Those who knew Bill will remember his honesty, his firm opinions and his unwavering sense of right and wrong. Each day at sunset, he could be found on the corner of 3rd Street, offering a silent prayer of thanks and a toast to tomorrow; a moment of peace that earned him the nickname "Sunset Bill" among friends.

Bill was preceded in death by his parents, Harold "Bull" Jenkins and Mildred Jenkins.

Survivors include his beloved wife, Kathy Mahon Jenkins; his three daughters, Kimberly, Kwyn and Kegan; four grandchildren, Dylan, Riley, Jagger and Ramsey; two brothers, Bob and David; and a sister, Diane.

Bill Jenkins lived a life grounded in humility, hard work and care for others. His absence will be deeply felt by the communities of Elizabethtown and Mexico Beach, where his presence left a lasting mark.

A celebration of life is from 6;30 to 8:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 8, at the Driftwood Inn, 2105 Hwy. 98, Mexico Beach, Florida.