Fred Earl Jenkins

He was born on August 1, 1945, in Pampa, Texas, to Fred and Lillian (Owens) Jenkins and was raised in Greenville, Texas. After high school, Fred set aside his childhood dream of becoming a cowboy and joined the United States Air Force in 1964. He proudly served during the Vietnam War, stationed in Thailand and other locations, before retiring from Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma in 1985 after 20 years of service.

On June 25, 2005, Fred married Judy McGrew. Together they shared over 20 years of love, laughter, family, and adventure. They traveled extensively across the United States—including a memorable Alaskan cruise—as well as to Canada and England.

Affectionately known as “Pop” or “Papa Tart” by his grandchildren for his love of Pop-Tarts, Fred will be remembered as a kind, compassionate, fair, and generous man. He had a talent for tinkering with anything mechanical or electronic and joy for playing video games, especially with his grandkids. He was deeply loved by many, especially his family, and leaves behind a legacy of integrity, warmth and devotion.

Fred was preceded in death by his parents; his siblings, Bobby Jenkins and Nancy Gilreath; and daughter-in-law, Alyson Jenkins.

He is survived by his beloved wife, Judy Jenkins; his children, Robert and wife Louisa Jenkins and Larry Jenkins; stepchildren, Jeff Horning and Jennifer Horning; adopted daughters, Heather Hyatt and April Hyatt Lipscomb; grandchildren, Genevieve Jenkins Afan (Michael), Anderson Jenkins, Madeline Horning, Christopher Coker, Brittany Lewis, Kendrick Lewis, Nicholas Horning, and Charlotte Horning; great-grandchildren, Eugene Afan, Ma’Kai Walker, and Noah Afan; and his sisters, Linda Ferrel and Mary Ann Kluttz. He is also remembered fondly by many other relatives and friends.

A celebration of Fred’s life will be held at 2:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 2, 2025, at Bill Merritt Funeral Service. The family requests in lieu of flowers, please make donations to the American Cancer Society.