L. Howard Jenkins III

JENKINS, L. Howard III, son of Helen Scott Cunningham and L. Howard Jenkins, Jr., finished the race and was welcomed home by his Lord and Savior with arms open wide on Good Friday, March 29, 2024. We joyfully envision the size of that hug.

While known by many as Howard or Big Howard or Gramps, to us he will always be known as Dad. Dad was born in Richmond on May 26, 1948, to his proud parents and adoring sister, Missy, all of whom he loved dearly for the rest of his life. He was an avid and successful junior golfer, a graduate of St. Christopher's School, Furman University and Old Dominion University Graduate School of Business. Known in his early years for his sense of humor, passion for fun, and a keen ability to create memorable moments, his life was changed forever when his mother told him about a beautiful young woman from Westhampton College who had just served her table at her weekly Ladies' Lunch. Dad said he played it cool, but we know he was likely there in minutes. Fifty-two years of a beautiful marriage ensued. Together, Howard and Cheryl would give birth to the three of us, Howard, Scott and Peyton.

Of all the lessons he taught us, several stand out. First, Dad taught us to never give up, and that was never more evident than in his final moments. Second, he showed us the importance of loving our country and saying "thank you" to our service members and veterans every chance you get. Third, he taught us to never forget where we came from. He was so proud of his Richmond roots but equally treasured our Mom's hometown of Emporia. Mom's family became his and two families became one.

But his most important lesson was his mantra of "God, Family and Friends." If the incredible volume and consistency of the outpouring of support this past week is any indication of his mantra's power, we would all do well to follow suit. Dad found great joy in being a vocal witness for Jesus. Whether from the pews of his beloved Second Baptist Church, to his "corner office" at Superstars Pizza, to customer service line encounters across the globe, Dad shared his love for Jesus. His devotion to family was guided by his faith-filled calling to be the best husband and father he could be. As his sons, we can attest to just how much he loved and prioritized family. We cannot remember a single of life's important moments where Dad was not present. There was never any personal endeavor that came before his family. The ultimate family man, he is survived by our mother, Cheryl Blankenship Jenkins; his sister, Missy Ryan and husband, Jim; his brother-in-law, Danny Blankenship and wife, Susan; his three sons, and his beloved grandchildren, Haley, Matthew, Taylor, Ryan, Howard V, Anna Scott, Sallie, Virginia, Peyton, Jack and Robert. Somehow, he still made time for friends. The outpouring of support this past week has reminded us of just how broad and wide and deep was Dad's impact. He sacrificially gave of his time, talents and heart to support and encourage those whom he loved. And boy did he ever have a capacity to love. Dad led with a smile first and a giant hug closely following. His impact is one that spans generations.

Visitation will be held on Thursday, April 11, from 4 to 7 p.m., followed by a funeral service on Friday, April 12, at 11 a.m. Both will be held at Second Baptist Church, 9614 River Road, Richmond, VA 23229. In lieu of flowers, please consider a memorial gift to Second Baptist Church or The Virginia War Memorial Foundation at 621 S. Belvidere Street, Richmond, Va. 23220.

We mourn the loss of this wonderful man whom we call Dad. While we'll miss you flashing the front door lights as we pull away from the house, and your honks as you pull away from ours, we know we will see you again. Thank you, Dad, for showing us the way. "Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Well done."