ROCKINGHAM - Mabel Jenkins
Mabel Barlow Jenkins “Patsy”, 96, went to her heavenly home on Saturday, August 18, 2018. She was born in Richmond, Virginia to Edgar Allan Barlow and Elizabeth Farmer Barlow on April 6, 1922. She graduated from Varina High School and went on to Madison College in Harrisonburg, Virginia where she was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha Sorority.
Patsy went on to join the US Navy and was a yeoman second class in the WAVES during World War II. Here she met the love of her life, Dewey Leon Jenkins, Sr. on a blind date and they were married in 1944. At her death, she was the oldest living female veteran in Richmond County.
Patsy was a devoted wife and mother. Her career was with Dr. J. Stanley Vetter and Dr. Thurman Scott with Richmond Medical Center as a medical secretary for many years.
She , along with her husband, was an active volunteer at Cameron Morrison Youth Center with the Yoke Fellow Ministries for more than twenty-seven years. Jenkins Dorm at Cameron Morrison is named in their honor for their commitment and contributions. Patsy wore many hats as a devoted member of First Baptist Church in Rockingham, NC.
She is survived by three children, Dewey Leon Jenkins, Jr. (Karen) of Rockingham, Donald Barlow Jenkins (Becky) of Concord, Elizabeth Dianne Jenkins of Little River, SC. Patsy was a caring grandmother to her seven grandchildren and six great grandchildren. She leaves behind her dog and constant companion, George. She would often say that she didn’t rescue George, he rescued her.
The family is forever grateful to Richmond County Hospice during her illness.
A celebration of her life will be at 2pm Wednesday, August 22, 2018 at the First Baptist Church of Rockingham. The family will greet friends from 12:45 to 1:45 pm Wednesday at the church.
Memorials in her honor may be sent to First Baptist Church of Rockingham, 201 North Randolph Street, Rockingham, NC 28379 or to Richmond County Hospice, 1119 US Hwy 1 North, Rockingham, NC 28379.
Carter Funeral Home of Rockingham is assisting the Jenkins family. Condolences may be made online at www.carterfuneral.net.
