Ernest Nicholas Jenkins, Jr.

Ernest Nicholas Jenkins, Jr. 82 of Morganton, NC passed away Thursday, January 17, 2019.  Born January 19, 1936 in Mecklenburg County, he was a son of the late Ernest Nicholas Jenkins, Sr. and Fanny Knox Jenkins.

Mr. Jenkins was a veteran of the United States Army.  He was a member of Bethel Baptist Church on Pax Hill Road and a member of the Gideons.  Mr. Jenkins retired from Burke County Public Schools where he served as principal at numerous schools.  In addition to his passionate dedication to the youth in his community, he also enjoyed gardening, fine woodworking, and many fishing trips with his friends.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his wife of fifty-four years, Martha Colleen Fisher Jenkins and brothers, Hal and Jan Jenkins.

Mr. Jenkins is survived by children, Ernie Jenkins and wife, Robbie, Will Jenkins, and Penny Jenkins; grandchildren, Nicholas, Jordan, Tommy, Logan, and Makenzie; and brother, James Thomas Jenkins and wife, Susan.

The family will receive friends from 2 – 3 p.m., Sunday, January 20, 2019 at Bethel Baptist Church.  The funeral will be held at 3 p.m. in the church with Rev. John Whisnant officiating.  Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Gideons.

Sossoman Funeral Home and Crematory Center is assisting the family with the arrangements.