Gerald Lester Jenkins Sr., a son of the late Bernice Collins Jenkins, was born in Richmond, Va., on July 24, 1948.  Gerald passed away on March 20, 2026, after a very brief and unexpected illness.  He was preceded in death by his mother, and stepson, Maryus Johnson.  Gerald graduated in 1968 from Maggie L. Walker High School where, as a mighty, mighty dragon he played football.  He loved to talk about being from "Newtown".  Going by many nicknames, classmates called him Turk, but he was also known as Yogge and Papa Smurf.

After leaving the Coast Guard, he found his career as a Master Electrician, working as an electrician until retirement for Richmond Community Hospital.   With a passion to still be involved with electrical work, following retirement he became an electrical instructor for the Chesterfield County Technical Center.

A sports enthusiast, Gerald especially loved football, baseball and fishing. He was a real fan of the Richmond Braves and also an avid chess player.  Additionally, Gerald served as a Mason with the Prince Hall Masonic Lodge #23.

Leaving to carry on his legacy is his wife, Ethel V. Jenkins; two sons, Gerald L. Jenkins Jr. and Aaron Wesley Jenkins; brothers, David L. Jenkins and Arthur L. Jenkins (Gayle); stepson, Marcus Johnson; stepdaughter, Patrice Johnson; grandchildren and great-grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and a host of friends, to include his best friend, Arther L. Gardner.  In celebrating a life well-lived, may his legacy remain in our hearts forever.

Professional services entrusted to Walter J. Manning Funeral Home, 700 N. 25th St., where a memorial service will be held Saturday, April 11, 2026, at 1 p.m.