Deacon James E Jenkins

His Journey 

James Edward Jenkins was born on March 17, 1941, in Cleveland, Ohio, to Bishop Samuel Jenkins and Henrietta Jenkins. He was the fifth of eight children born to this loving union. 

At an early age, James confessed his life to Christ and remained a faithful servant of the Lord until his passing. He possessed a remarkable gift for music and was a gifted singer. Alongside his brothers, he formed a gospel group affectionately known as The Seven Harmonieres, ministering in song throughout Greater Cleveland, Michigan, and Pennsylvania. It was during this season of ministry that he met the love of his life, Lucille. 

James attended Cleveland Public Schools and graduated from East Technical High School in 1960. While in school, he was an active member of the high school choir and the All-City Choir, singing in the baritone and bass sections. He also excelled in athletics and played running back on the football team. Following graduation, James enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, where he honorably served for four years. During his service, he attended Radio Communication School and traveled to many places he once only dreamed of, including South Carolina, North Carolina, California, Japan, the Philippines, Hawaii, Guam, and Vietnam. He attained the rank of Corporal and served primarily in radar surgens air traffic monitoring, and radio communications with ground troops. An excellent marksman, he was also a proud member of the Marine rifle competition team. 

Throughout his military service, James faithfully courted Lucille through heartfelt correspondence, carefully preserving the letters they exchanged. In his final year of service, he returned home and married "the love of his life." Their union of love, faith, and commitment endured for 62 beautiful years. After living in California for one year following his Honorable discharge, they returned to Cleveland, Ohio, where they established their family home. 

To this blessed union, four children were born: Bonita Jenkins, Dr. Elaine Barclay, Marc Jenkins, Sr., and Malinda Jenkins-Williams. 

James began his professional career at General Motors, where he was accepted into the Skilled Trades Program. He furthered his education at Cuyahoga Community College, earning an Associate Degree in Mechanical Engineering. After 33 years of dedicated service, he retired as a Skilled Trade Supervisor. A man of deep faith and unwavering commitment to God's work, James faithfully served at his father's church, St. Luke Freewill Spiritual Methodist Church, for many years. In June 1974, he and his family were led to Temple Baptist Church under the leadership of the late Pastor A. E. Campbell, Jr. During his membership at Temple Baptist Church, James served in numerous capacities. He was ordained as a Deacon in 1978 and faithfully served as Church Treasurer for 18 years. He also coached the church basketball team and served as president of the bowling league. Under the leadership of Pastor Sedric D. Veal, Sr., he served as Team Lead for the Male Chorus for 10 years and as a counselor for the Junior Deacons. Until his passing, he continued to serve as Deacon Emeritus and remained an active member of both the Mass Choir and Male Chorus. 

James Edward Jenkins lived a life marked by faith, service, discipline, love, and devotion to family and community. His legacy will forever be cherished by all who knew and loved him. Semper Fi, James, you will truly be missed. 

James was preceded in death by his son, Marc Jenkins. 

He leaves to cherish his memory: his devoted wife, Lucille Jenkins; his children, Bonita Jenkins, Dr. Elaine Barclay (Kevin), Malinda Jenkins-Williams (Ray); daughter in law Debra; one aunt, Juanita Singleton; one adopted daughter, Nawassa Brown-Williams; thirteen grandchildren; ten great-grandchildren; eight bonus grandchildren; seven bonus great-grandchildren; and a host of nieces, nephews, great-nieces, great-nephews, cousins, extended family members, dear friends and fellow Marines. 

Journey Complete 

A Public Viewing will be held on February 12, 2026, from 3:00PM to 5:00PM, with a 4:15PM Memorial Presentation, at the House Of Peace Funeral Home, 4105 East 71st Street, Cleveland, OH. The Celebration of Life Service will be on February 13, 2026, with a 6:00PM Wake and 7:00PM Service at Temple Baptist Church, 1862 Noble Road, East Cleveland, OH. Sedric D. Veal, Sr, Eulogist.  The Internment will be at the Ohio Western National Reserve on February 16, 2026.

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