Richard K. Jenkins, 75, of Brandon, FL. died Friday, February 7, 2025, at Brandon Hospital surrounded by family and after talking to family on his phone. He was born in Schneider Home in Eldon, Missouri on May 27, 1949, the son of the late Herschel Isaac and Alicia Lucille Jenkins.
He graduated from Eldon High School in 1967. In 1969, he went to proudly serve in the United States Navy in Whidbey Island, Washington as an Aviation Fire Control Technician maintaining ballistic flight computers, and servicing planes. He also played softball, basketball and football for his Navy teams.
After military service, he attended Linn Technical College and worked at Cheseborough Ponds. He then moved to St Louis and worked for Mylee Digital Science making inventory computers testing electronics. Next jobs were at Artonix testing electronics, Emerson Electric repairing Tow Missile launches, LaBarge Medical in St Louis managing the Field Service department.
In 1980, he moved to Elfers, FL for a job at Johnson & Johnson Critikon, Incorporated working in the testing department. Later moving to Brandon, FL he continued working for Critikon, Group Technologies and Baxter Healthcare Corporation.
He was a Mason at Brandon Masonic Lodge No 114 in Brandon, FL.
Rick enjoyed being with his family and friends, visiting historic sites, going to the beach, playing golf, softball, wallyball, bowling and beach volleyball. Rick enjoyed watching old movies, was an avid reader and was extremely knowledgeable of historic moments. He was often called “The Hatman” for the variety of hats he collected and wore. Known for his storytelling, Rick always kept a smile on the faces of those around him. He was a friendly, caring soul who was always there if you needed a hand.
He is survived by his wife, Sherry; four children, Tammy Wickham (Dave), Scott Ellermann, Nicole Cohn (Steve), Amy Davidson (Stephen), 15 grandchildren, numerous great grandchildren and brothers Hershel Jenkins (Carolyn) and Randall Jenkins (Susan).
He was preceded in death by his parents, brother David Jenkins, and great grandson Wesley Bryan.
Instead of a service, Richard desired for family and friends to share stories of fun memories they had with him. In lieu of flowers please donate to your desired charitable organization.
