Helen Marie Jenkins

Mother Helen Jenkins was born on August 29, 1937 in Brownsville, New York. She was the seventh child of eight born to the late Ernest and Hannah Myers. During her early life she met and married Richard Jenkins on October 13, 1955. To their union they reared four children. She showered her children with unconditional love and instilled in them the importance of being the best you can be. Her children were taught to love God and always be respectful to others. Richard Jenkins preceded her in death on August 15, 2018. She Graduated from Clara Barton High School. Down through the years her friends met every five years at Brooklyn College where they were honored and recognized for their contributions at Clara Barton High School. Helen had a passion for cooking. Her graceful culinary skills were exemplified in the meals she prepared at Mays Department Store for over 17 years. Everyone enjoyed her meals. While at Mays her supervisor “Marcel” was a source of strength and support. She had a successful career at Maimonides Medical Center as an Administrative Assistant for over 15 years. Helen later retired and dedicated her life to serving her family. Helen was familiar with the church and had a desire to surrender her life to the Lord. After committing her life to the Lord, she wanted to rear her family in a Godly manner. Helen loved with a passion; her home, the ministry, and God's people. She had a beautiful voice to sing the praises of God. Helen joined Greater New Zion Church of Christ in Laurelton. Where she was a member for over 40 years. While she and the family grew, she decided to enroll in Bible College. She didn’t want to just read the Bible. Her desire was to understand foundational beliefs and enrich her spiritual life. After successfully completing several Bible courses, she was able to obtain several Bible Certificates. Family was her source of strength. She enjoyed interacting with her children. Her strong bond with friends was held close to her heart. Many cherished moments were shared with her loved ones. Helen had the ministry of “Helps” supporting the individuals needs physically, financially, emotionally, and mentally. Some of the proudest moments of her life, was when her Grandson graduated from Norfolk State University with a Bachelor’s Degree “Summa Cum Laude”, her great Nephew graduated from Law School, her great Niece retired from the U.S. Air Force after serving over 20 years. Helen had another Great grandson which graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree from Penn State University. Her eyes sparkled when she talked about her Son “Kevin” who served in the 82nd Airborne Division and served in Iraq. Her Nephew Bruce who was affectionately known as “Cousin Bruce” was in it all, through it all and assisted her whenever she needed him. Helen enjoyed bingo with her longtime neighbors. Her skillful bowling techniques were like no other. Beloved Helen, also known as Nanny, was called home on April 13, 2023. Her three brothers and four sisters preceded her in death Ernest, Kenneth and Albert. Her four Sisters, Hannah, Jean, Pearl and Ruth. She leaves to cherish her 4 children; Helen (Cookie) Jenkins, Richard Wayne Jenkins, Kevin Michael Jenkins Sr. and Darryl Brian (Chico) Jenkins. Three Daughter-in-Laws; Linda, Michelle and Virginia. Grand children: Damon Sr., Quiana, Kevin Jr. (Boomer), Dana, Maggie, Tishana, Denisha, Candice, Kenisha, Danielle, Nyaira, Richie, Dymond and 2 Brother-in-Laws; Teddy Jenkins and Otis Raysor and a Host of Great Grandchildren, Nieces, Nephews, Relatives, Friends and the Linden Plaza Family. Special and Devoted Life Long Friends; Dorthey Scobey, Byron Murrain, Sarah Green Diamond, Gloria Murrain and their Singing Group “The Harmonnetts” who won three third place titles at the Apollo Theater on 125th St Harlem, New York. Sincerest Gratitude to Chaplain Nina Blades for the love and compassion that she showered on Mother Helen in her final months.

Helen Marie Jenkins

July 29, 1937 - April 13, 2023