Mrs. Jessie Mae Jenkins, born December 16, 1934 in Littleton, North Carolina. At the young age of 6 years old, she relocated to Newport News Virginia from Littleton, North Carolina with her mother Bertie Alston and father William Alston.

She attended the Newport News public school system, graduating from Huntington High School in 1952, where she played on the girls’ basketball team. After graduating, she moved to Manhattan, NY, where she met her husband of 20 years,Thomas Jenkins.

She worked full time and attended Adelphi University. She received her bachelor’s degree in Social Work and began working at Brookdale Hospital in Brooklyn for many years. After returning to her hometown, Newport News, Va. in the mid 80’s, she began to work for Eastern State Hospital until she retired at the age of 62. Jessie Mae Jenkins loved her family.

She was preceded in death by her daughter, Deirdre J. Cherry. She leaves to cherish her loving memory; her son, Keith B. Jenkins (Deborah); her daughter, Sharyl Ramos;13 grandchildren, 25 great-grandchildren, 2 great-great-grandkids and many friends.

A funeral service will be held 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, June 2, 2026 at Redeeming Grace Church, 24 Mary Ann Drive, Hampton, VA. 23666. Entombment will follow in Hampton Memorial Gardens.