Obituary of Raymond Jenkins

Raymond B. ?Speedy? Jenkins, Sr., age 83, passed away Thursday, April 12, 2012, after a brief illness. Born in Columbia, SC, he was the son of Thomas Wellwood Jenkins and Lula Belle Jenkins. Known for his young spirit and optimism, he had a love for adventure and traveling. He spent many days at the beach with his companion, who he called ?Sweet Thing?. He enjoyed fishing and anything exploratory, and loved to tell stories and write. Each night he read from his Bible, and had a strong devotion to God. In his early years, Mr. Jenkins served in the United States Air Force, and would often tell stories of his tour in Alaska. After his enlisted days he taught auto mechanics at Spring Valley High School and eventually retired as a mechanic from Hancock Buick. After retirement, he pursued entrepreneurships including his store ?Speedy Mart? and his repair shop ?Speedy Auto?. He leaves his companion of 34 years, Hazel Gaskin, his three sons, Billy, Edgar, and Walter Jenkins; a step-son, James W. Gaskin, Jr.; his daughters, Linda Spires and Barbara-Ann Broach; two step-daughters, Jimmie Kay Gaskin and Gail Motley; his grandchildren, Jennifer, Tonya, James, Amanda, and Tessa; six great-grandchildren; many more close family and friends that will miss him dearly. Raymond was preceded in death by his son, Johnny B. Jenkins; a step-daughter, Thelma Baker; and grandson, Sgt. James R. Gartman. The visitation for Raymond B. ?Speedy? Jenkins, Sr. will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home on Sunday, April 15, 2012 from 6-8p.m. The funeral service will be held at Greenlawn Funeral Home Chapel, on Monday, April 16, 2012 at 3:30 pm. with entombment to follow in Greenlawn Memorial Park Mausoleum. On-line condolences may be sent to www.greenlawn-columbia.com. The family has entrusted Greenlawn Funeral Home with the arrangements.