The Richmond News, June 21, 2024

Kenny Jenkins

Kenneth “Kenny” Eugene Jenkins, 86, of Richmond passed away Saturday, June 15, 2024, at his home, surrounded by his loving family. Kenny was born Sept. 3, 1937, in Richmond, the son of John F. and Martha (Alexander) Jenkins. He was united in marriage to Marjorie Gurgin of Atlanta on July 6, 1958. She survives of the home. Additional survivors include three sons, Terry Jenkins of Marshall, Tony (Loraine) Jenkins of Warrensburg and Timothy (Rhonda) Jenkins of Springfield; and a daughter, Sherry (Rick) Bersano of Richmond. Other survivors include eight grandchildren, Erick Bersano, Derick Bersano, Jade Jenkins, Tyler Jenkins, Jessica (Derrick) Caldwell, Dallas (Jimmy) Bilton, Darren Jenkins and Haley (Tyler) McGaugh; and 13 great-grandchildren, Everett Bersano, Kendall Bersano, Patrick Bersano, Eli Bersano, Haven Jenkins, Mason Caldwell, Connor Caldwell, Jase Bilton, Reed Bilton, Nash Bilton, Sophia Horton, Karson McGaugh and Marshall McGaugh.

In addition to his parents, Kenny was preceded in death by two brothers, John Junior Jenkins and Clyde Jenkins.

Kenny went to school in Henrietta and Stet. He graduated in 1955 from Stet High School. While in high school, he received the DeKalb Award through the FFA.

Kenny showed Hampshire sheep for many years and met his wife in 1957 at the Kirksville Fair. Together, they celebrated nearly 66 years of marriage, had four children, eight grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. He was proud of his family, being chosen in 1977 as a Ray County Farm Family of the Year.

His activities included being a 4-H leader for more than 50 years; serving on the 4-H Council and the Ray County Fair Board, and as president of Hickory Grove Cemetery; and being a member of the Hickory Grove Baptist Church. He enjoyed watching the Kansas City Chiefs and wrestling.

Kenny made his living by farming, working on road construction, and working for Olin at the Lake City Ammunition Plant and for several local road districts.

The family suggests memorial contributions be made to either the Hickory Grove Baptist Church or Cemetery. They can be left at or mailed to Thurman Funeral Home; 507 E. Main St.-P.O. Box 190; Richmond, MO 64085.

Visitation was scheduled for 6-8 p.m. Thursday, June 20, at Thurman Funeral Home in Richmond. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Friday, June 21, at the funeral home. Interment will be in Hickory Grove Cemetery, northeast of Richmond.

Please share your memories of Kenny with the family by visiting www.thurmanfuneralhome. com.