Phillip Elvy Jenkins, 78, of Mt. Zion, went to Heaven on Friday, February 27, 2026, in his home with his family by his side.

He was born November 12, 1947, in Keokuk, Iowa, and was the son of Elvy and Pauline Jenkins. Phil married Connie Allen on August 21,1966 in Lima, Illinois. He modeled Jesus by being a great servant to others. He never met a stranger, and always made time to help anyone that asked, and even those that didn’t. Anywhere he went, he would strike up a conversation with someone and find a meaningful commonality with him. Some of those strangers became his best friends and they were there for each other no matter what. He had many jobs in his life, but his true passions were his family and friends, being a REALTOR®, and attending as many of his children’s and grandchildren’s events as possible.

He loved Jesus. He loved his wife, Connie, who had been with him for 60 years in life, and in his heart for the last four years. He loved his children, whom he taught about life, how to be present for people, and how to love God. He loved his grandchildren and was delighted to spend hours watching their numerous sporting activities and other events and simply being around them. He was one of the most patient men God created. He found joy in his life through the many relationships he nurtured, dining out at local restaurants with friends regularly, and in nature. Riding his motorcycle, alone or with friends, was a way he loved to spend his time. Roses were his favorite flowers, watching his bird feeders brought him peace, as did being with his dog, Brandy.

Phil served his country in Vietnam as a member of the Army Military Police. He retired from working at Caterpillar, eventually retired from being a REALTOR®, and was an active member of the Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church. He is survived by his children Jeff (Brittany) Jenkins of Mt. Zion, Brad (Julia) Jenkins of Glen Carbon, Angie (Mark) Richardson of Mt. Zion, his grandchildren Hadley, Brynne, Ellie, Landon, Ruby, Drew, and Sydney, and a host of other loving relatives.

Phil was preceded in death by his wife, his parents and his two sisters.

Services to celebrate Phil’s life will be 10:00 AM Tuesday, March 10, 2026, at the Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church, 345 W. Main St. Mt. Zion. Visitation will be from 5:00-7:00 PM Monday, March 9, 2026, at Calvert & Wikoff Funeral Home in Mt. Zion. Burial will be in Point Pleasant Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Mt. Zion Presbyterian Church or to the Cancer Care Specialists of Illinois.

courtesy:  Calvert & Wikoff