James Edward Jenkins' Obituary
James Edward Jenkins Jr., age 92, passed away peacefully on the morning of Thursday, July 24, at Broken Arrow Baptist Village.
Born on December 28, 1932, in Tulsa, Oklahoma, James was the son of James E. Jenkins Sr. and Forty Evelyn Long. Affectionately known as “Jimmy” throughout his life, the nickname reflected the warmth, kindness, and affection that endeared him to so many.
On January 17, 1953, James married the love of his life, Shirley Nadine Holladay, at Crowell Heights Baptist Church. Together, they celebrated 72 wonderful years of marriage, grounded in love, family, and unwavering faith.
James is preceded in death by his parents, James and Evelyn Jenkins Sr.; his sister, Hazel Greer; and his brothers, George and Ronnie Jenkins. He is survived by his devoted wife, Nadine Jenkins; his sister, Charlotte Kelley; his children, Brenda Walner (Rick) and Randy Jenkins (Pam); and his grandchildren, Tabitha Rhatigan, Tara Lang, Tyler Walner, Mitch Jenkins, and Paige Sampong. He was also a proud great-grandfather to nine great-grandchildren and leaves behind many extended family members.
A 1952 graduate of Will Rogers High School, James stood out in both track and football during his years at Lowell Junior High. In February 1953, he was drafted into the U.S. Army. Following his military service, he began a career with McDonnell Douglas and later earned his associate's degree from Spartan School of Aeronautics. He concluded his professional journey at American Airlines, where he worked faithfully until his retirement in 1997.
James and Nadine built their life together in Tulsa, Oklahoma, later retiring to Bella Vista, Arkansas, before settling at Broken Arrow Baptist Village.
He had a passion for woodworking, bowling, stock car racing, church softball, and especially enjoyed watching his grandchildren compete in sports. A man of deep and abiding faith, James served as a deacon in many of the churches he attended: Crowell Heights Baptist Church, Fellowship Baptist, Valley View Baptist, Berean Baptist, Bella Vista Baptist, and First Baptist Broken Arrow.
James had a special heart for children, often volunteering with toddlers at church until he could no longer sit on the floor. He served faithfully at church and was always willing to step in and fill any role where he was needed — never seeking recognition but always dependable.
Though a man of few words, James had a quiet strength that commanded the room. When he spoke, people listened — not just out of respect, but because his words carried weight, wisdom, and sincerity.
James will be remembered as a man of humble strength, deep faith, and enduring love for his family and the people he served throughout his life.
Services will be livestreamed for those friends and family members who are unable to attend services. Please click the following link to access the recording.
What’s your fondest memory of James?
What’s a lesson you learned from James?
Share a story where James' kindness touched your heart.
Describe a day with James you’ll never forget.
How did James make you smile?