Edward “Ed” Mitchell Jenkins Jr., age 96 of Jefferson passed away on Monday, September 14, 2026. He was born in Ashe County, North Carolina on September 13, 1930 to the late Edward Mitchell Jenkins Sr. and Pearl Beatrice Wyatt Jenkins. In addition to his parents, he was also preceded in death by an infant sister, Muriel Jenkins, one brother, J.C. Jenkins and sister, Marcella Goodman.

In a remarkable testament to their lifelong love and devotion to one another, Betty Jo and Ed Jenkins, passed away on the same day, only minutes apart, reunited in eternity as they had shared their lives together. It is comforting to know that they were reunited once again and now rest together in the presence of their Lord.

He was a faithful member of Orion Baptist Church, where he served as a deacon and was deeply committed to his church family. His faith was not simply something he professed, but something he lived through his willingness to serve, encourage, and help others.

A hardworking man by nature, Ed spent many years working alongside his father as a mason and bricklayer. He took great pride in his work and was known for his strong work ethic and willingness to put in an honest day's work.

Ed was also a proud member of Masonic Lodge #594 and the Ashe Shrine Club. Through these organizations, he enjoyed fellowship and had the opportunity to serve his community alongside many friends and brothers. He valued the friendships he made and the sense of purpose that came from being part of something larger than himself.

Mr. Jenkins is survived by one daughter, Jennifer Jenkins of Statesville, one sister, Melba Phillips (Dwight) of Wilkesboro, sister-in-law Margaret Jenkins of West Jefferson and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral Services for both Betty and Ed will be held on Sunday, September 20, 2026 at 3:00pm at Ashelawn Memorial Chapel by Rev. Lawrence Goodman and Rev. Johnny Sloan. Burial will follow in Ashelawn Memorial Gardens. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

The family respectfully requests no food please, in lieu of flowers memorials may be made to the Orion Baptist Church Building Fund; PO Box 1345, Jefferson, NC 28640.

Though he will be deeply missed, his family and friends have comfort in knowing that the life that he built, with faith as its foundation.