of Sherwood, AR
January 19, 1939 - September 2, 2021
Carolyn (don't call her Carolyn) Joan (that's pronounced Jo-ann) Jenkins left this world September 2, 2021. She was a quiet, reserved woman and didn't want anyone to make a fuss over her passing, or this obituary for that matter. But since her children never listened to her anyway, here it is.
Joan was predeceased by her brother Raymond Rogers of Altamont, IL. She is survived by her brother, Jim (Joyce) Rogers of St. Elmo, IL; her sisters, Margaret, Beulah, Janet, and Dorothy of Altamont; her children, Gregory Allen (the troublemaker) of Sherwood; Christopher Neil (the favorite, AKA He Who Could Do No Wrong) of Springfield, OR; and Melanie Elaine (the one who actually took care of everything and probably should have been her favorite but wasn't because Chris gave her grandbabies, so there ya go) of North Little Rock; her grandchildren, Logan, India, and Archer of Eugene, OR; and many nieces, nephews, in-laws, and friends. She is also survived by her deaf and blind dog, Tug o' War, who will probably outlive us all.
Joan became a Registered Nurse in her 40s, working in the cardiac critical care unit of almost every hospital in Little Rock at one point or another. This career afforded her the ability to support her family and to explore the world. She did so extensively for a time, traipsing off to various countries such as Singapore, Malaysia, China, Australia, etc; leaving her children to fend for themselves for weeks, sometimes months on end. This instilled in them a fierce independence and self-sufficiency. At least that's what they tell people. Their therapists would probably disagree, they haven't really compared notes.
After Joan had settled down a bit from globetrotting and her children were mostly out of the house, she took up other pursuits. One of her renewed passions was a love for dolls, the porcelain ones, with cherubic smiles and those blank expressionless eyes that seem to stare directly into your soul. She managed to amass an extensive collection over the years, displaying them proudly in glass cases, transforming the master bedroom into a place in which her grandchildren (and others) would be afraid to sleep. She had many other interests as well, too numerous to list here, but at least her daughter was finally able to persuade her to part with the Harlequin romances. Oh, the trees that gave up their lives for that library.
Much more could be said about Joan, but they're charging us a buck a word here so better wrap it up. She was generous to a fault, an amazing and adventurous cook, a wonderful friend, a caring neighbor, loving sister and aunt, and the best mother a child could hope to have (especially if you were her favorite). She has left us to again fend for ourselves. She will be missed.
Services to be held in Fayette County Illinois at a later date.
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20 Condolence(s)
Pam
Thursday, September 23, 2021
I didn't know Joan. I was going through obituaries on this site looking for the one for the husband of a good friend of mine. I didn't find his, but I came across this one. I thought her name and photo looked familiar. I, too, have worked in healthcare for 30+ years, not bedside because that role is reserved for the best of the best. I continue to be in awe of these heroes with RN after their names. Nevertheless, I unfortunately didn't have the pleasure of knowing Joan, but from your description, it's certainly my loss. Looks like she did a great job living life to the fullest, helping others and raising a couple of great children who obviously adored her and inherited her sense of humor. I'm so sorry for your loss. She has prepared you to handle extended times without her. Please take comfort in knowing you'll be reunited again someday. Continue to hold her memories close. God bless you!
Mike Wisinger
Tuesday, September 14, 2021
Loved getting to know Joan over the past 17 years. She will be missed!
Bernice Ufford
Friday, September 10, 2021
Joan was a great friend and co worker. A great nurse that patient's loved. She and I traveled to New Zealand and back and my family loved her. I will really miss her dry humor and her hugs.
Stacy Wiley
Wednesday, September 8, 2021
Melanie and family you are in my prayers. I love this obituary so much. Your Mom was a special lady. Hugs and love sent your way.
Christine Frost
Wednesday, September 8, 2021
I didn’t know your mother, but her obituary made me wish I had. Bravo on the best obituary I’ve ever read!😂🥰👏
Josh Wood
Tuesday, September 7, 2021
I'm so sorry for your loss. Jess & I are praying for comfort in this time.
Shannon Combs
Monday, September 6, 2021
My condolences to you, Gregory, and Christopher, Mel.. I’m so sorry, sis. She was a soldier and sassy! I loved way she treated me. I love the way you honored your mom while she was here.
Barry
Sunday, September 5, 2021
Joan will always have a special place in my heart. Fond memories of us going through markets, antique shops, yard sale and thrift shops. Every time I look at my oil lamp it reminds me of you Joan.
Celesta/And Momma
Sunday, September 5, 2021
I did not know Joan, my mother and I wish we could have known her. We enjoyed reading the tribute. Sorry for this tremendous loss for your family. Joan reminds me of my momma so much so I had to acknowledge her here. Whoever wrote it... and payed all the dollars by word. Great job 👏.
Lisa
Sunday, September 5, 2021
So sorry for your loss. I don't know your family, but I am crying. What a beautiful tribute.
Sandy Payne
Sunday, September 5, 2021
Thoughts and prayers go out to the family.
Angela Bell
Sunday, September 5, 2021
Your mother was a great lady that I admired. May we all keep her alive in our thoughts. My love and prayers go out to her family.
Ellen Hall
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Her obit says it all, she was a wonderful lady, a great coworker and greater friend. I will miss her.
Janet Charles
Saturday, September 4, 2021
I am so sorry to hear of your loss. You will be in my thoughts and prayers.
Sheila Bullerwell
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Love
Lisa Beck
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Beautiful lady .
Heaven got a good one .
Prayers sent for her families.
Nancy Newcomb
Saturday, September 4, 2021
So very sorry for your lose. Will be thinking of your family.
Best obituary ever, she left all of you such strength and courage.
Denny Duran
Saturday, September 4, 2021
Goodbye Mama Jenkins. Kristi and I love you and will remember you fondly. I will watch over your in unruly brood and make sure they know that they too are always loved.
Becky Brown
Saturday, September 4, 2021
This was such a great tribute and captured your mom so well. We love you!
Doris jenkins
Saturday, September 4, 2021
My favorite lunch buddy.
A great lady.
Will miss our lunches..