Larry Otto Jenkins

Larry Otto Jenkins, age 83, passed away April 17, 2026, surrounded by the love of his family. He was born on May 16, 1942, in Greenfield, Missouri, to Mabel W. and James Ira Jenkins.

Larry began his high school years at Central High School in Springfield before transferring to Hillcrest shortly after it was built. He proudly graduated as a member of Hillcrest’s very first graduating class in 1961. In 1962, he married Susan in Columbus, Kansas, beginning a life centered on hard work, family, and shared memories.

A dedicated and hardworking man, Larry held a variety of jobs throughout his life. He worked at Henningson Egg Factory, McQueary Brothers Drug Company, and Springfield Plating, where he helped make bumpers. In 1973, he began working at Zenith, and later, in 1994, he joined Loren Cook Company, where he remained until his retirement in October of 2024.

Larry had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed hunting, though he may have seen more deer than he brought home, he appreciated the experience, and his guns, just as much as the hunt itself. He also found joy in woodworking and drawing, and at one time even considered becoming an architect.

A lifelong baseball fan, Larry especially loved the St. Louis Cardinals. He attended games whenever he could, and when he couldn’t, he faithfully listened on the radio. As a boy, he greatly admired and idolized Stan “The Man” Musial. Larry also had a passion for CB and ham radios, spending countless hours talking with people across the world, including his daughter Lisa, whom he affectionately called “Giggle Box.”

Above all, Larry cherished time with his family. Known for being ornery yet goofy, he had a special way of making others smile and brought laughter wherever he went.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Mabel W. and James Ira Jenkins; his daughter, Julie Kay Jenkins-Weston; his brothers, Elton Jenkins, Conrad Jenkins, Donald Jenkins, and Melvin Jenkins; his sister, Virginia “Susie” Kincheloe; and his great-granddaughter, Eden Angell.

Larry is survived by his brother, Bobby Jenkins; his children, Bradley (Robin) Jenkins, Andy Jenkins, Lisa (Doug) Johnson, and Michael Jenkins; and his grandchildren, Nicholas Jenkins, Brina (Josh) Carlson, Jyothi (Ross) Bradbury, Natalie (Jeffery) Cruse, Autymn Ganz, Timothy (Ariel) Weston, Jessica (Cody) Weston, Amber Jenkins, Ashton Jenkins, Derek Jenkins, Melinda (Wyatt) Percival, and Tyler Johnson. He also leaves behind 22 great-grandchildren, with one more on the way.

The family would like to extend their heartfelt thanks to the staff of Ozark Nursing and Care Center for their dedication, compassion, and care.

Larry will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for his humor, his hardworking spirit, and the love he gave so freely to his family and friends.