Rita V. Jenkins
After a more than 10-year battle with Alzheimer's Disease, Rita Venitia Jenkins, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, aunt, and teacher, passed from this life, January 8, 2018 in Spartanburg, S.C., at the age of 91. Born in Manhattan, N.Y. she was the daughter of the late Peter Powlis and Veronica Harris Powlis of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

A fierce advocate for her family, Rita unselfishly supported their efforts throughout her life. Rita had a love of learning and education and, after raising her children, she returned to school to finish her own education; completing college at the State University of New York College at Old Westbury, and earning a Master's Degree in Special Education from Adelphi University. Rita taught in the Huntington, N.Y. School District for more than 20 years as a Special Education teacher. Rita was also a member of St. Patrick’s Roman Catholic Church in Huntington, N.Y.

Rita was a Girl Scout Leader, an avid reader, and a bowler. She also loved traveling and creative activities including knitting, embroidery, needlepoint and painting.

Rita leaves behind family and friends, including her husband of 69 years, Warren Bernard Jenkins; 3 children and their spouses: Keith Warren Jenkins and Jo-Ann Wallace, Theresa Elizabeth Jenkins Russ and Leon Russ, and Kevin Peter Jenkins and Gina L. Simms. Rita also leaves 4 grandchildren; Corey Jenkins, Cameron Jenkins, Evan Jenkins and Kynan Jenkins; as well as a niece, Veronika Powlis.

Services will be held Monday, January 15, at the Bobo Funeral Chapel, 1860 Cannons Campgrounds Road, Spartanburg, SC 29307, beginning at 11 a.m. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.bobofuneralchapel.com.

In lieu of sending flowers, the family is requesting donations be made to the Alzheimer’s Association in Rita’s name at the following address; http://act.alz.org/goto/Rita_V_Jenkins.
 

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