Shirley Ann Jenkins

November 8, 1934 - October 1, 2016

Shirley Ann Jenkins Shirley Helms Jenkins, 81, of Mint Hill, died Saturday, October 1, 2016, at her home under the care of Novant Hospice. Born on November 8, 1934, in Union County, NC, Shirley was the daughter of Lester W. Helms and Kathleen Harkey. She grew up in Union County and graduated from Indian Trail High School in 1953. On July 14, 1956, she married Henry Jenkins and they moved to Mecklenburg shortly after Henry was discharged in 1957. They bought their house in Mint Hill in 1961 and have been there ever since. Shirley worked as a data processor for Woonsocket Spinning Company and at Eckerd Drug before retiring around 1980. After her retirement, she provided daycare for every one of her grandchildren while their parents worked. She was a member of Wilson Grove Baptist Church for many years and recently enjoyed watching televised First Presbyterian services on Sundays. Shirley was also an avid sewer, gifted at making anything from Halloween Costumes to Christmas wreaths and was known for making sure her home was decorated for the holidays. She enjoyed word searches, cooking and baking. Always caring for others, whether you needed something or just a Christmas card, she was always there and never forgot anyone. She did not get out as much in her later years as she became physically ill the last ten years and started to become more and more homebound for the last five. Recently, she had loved using Facebook to remain in touch and keep up though staying at home. She is survived by her husband, Henry; and their five children: Vanessa Robinette (husband Rick) of Charlotte, Henry Jenkins Jr. (wife Lisa) of Southport, NC; Gregory Jenkins of Charlotte; Todd Jenkins (wife Kelly) of Fuquay Varina, NC; and Christopher Jenkins of Oak Island, NC. She is also survived by grandchildren: Ashley DiPalma (husband Austin), Kyle Robinette, Holly Jenkins Coates (husband Justin), Lindsey Jenkins, Daniel Jenkins, Kristen Burke (husband Dan), Brooke Bajak (husband Artur), and Garrett Jenkins. Shirley was a dear great grandmother to Brittany Shaw, Kaleb Coates, Hunter Jenkins, Abigail Jenkins, Taylor Jenkins, Miller Burke, and Ryley Bajak. The oldest of six children, Shirley is also survived by her siblings: Vera Broome (husband Frank), Paul Ray Helms (wife Ada Mae), Nancy Haywood (husband Bernard), Peggy Hargette (husband Johnny), and Tommy Helms (wife Judy). Shirley is further survived by numerous nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends. She was preceded in death by her parents. A Memorial Service led by Pastor Matt Broadway celebrating the life, love and blessing of Shirley will he held on Tuesday, October 4 at 11 am at the Lowe-Neddo Funeral Home, 4715 Margaret Wallace Road. Visitation will take place at the funeral home from 10 am until the time of service. A reception will be held at funeral home following memorial service where all are invited to join in food and fellowship. In honor of the care and love shown to Mrs. Shirley, the family respectfully requests memorials in her name be made to the Novant Health Hospice and Palliative Care, 200 Hawthorne Lane, Charlotte, North Carolina 28204.