Joseph Alexander Jenkins

Joseph Alexander Jenkins, 84, of Union, NJ, passed away on April 2, 2018. He is survived by his wife of 65 years, Dorothy Jenkins, his daughters, Geralyn and Julie Ann Jenkins, and his grandson, Jevon Mason. His oldest daughter, Janice Mason, predeceased him. Joe, as he is known, was born in Tampa, Florida on July 30, 1933 to Marie Alford. He received his early education from St. Peter Claver Catholic School, which he continued to support throughout his lifetime through charitable donations. His donations and company matches from his former employer, Prudential, have gone a long way in supporting projects and purchasing equipment for the school. He recently donated his collection of Black history books to the school. He went to Middleton High School, where he graduated in 1952. Joe married his high school sweetheart, Dorothy Stevenson, and they moved to New Jersey, where Joe often spent summers working. Joe was certified to work in Heating and Refrigeration. He was employed at a number of companies, including Federal, Resistoflex, and Ballantine Beer. His last place of employment was Prudential Insurance Company, where he worked for over 20 years in the boiler room. He retired in 1992, and thoroughly enjoyed his retirement days. Joe and Dorothy had three daughters, Janice, Geralyn, and Julie. He provided for his family, giving them many of the things he didn't have when he was growing up. The Jenkins family made several road trips to Florida when the girls were young. Joe saw the value of education, and sent his daughters to college. His grandson, Jevon Mason, was born in 1994. When Jevon was young, Joe made annual trips to pick Jevon up from his home in Ohio, to spend the summer in New Jersey. He enrolled Jevon in various sports classes like basketball, soccer, and golf, where Jevon was able to make new friends, and further develop his athletic skills. Joe was very social, and particularly enjoyed hosting parties and cookouts. He also enjoyed conversations with his friends and relatives. He was able to take vacations to various parts of the world, as well as cruises to the Caribbean, Alaska, and to the Panama Canal. Joseph Jenkins touched the lives of many people through his outgoing personality and generous spirit. A celebration of Life memorial service will be held on April 14, 2018.