Jennifer Dawn Boykin

Jennifer Dawn Boykin was born in Coconut Grove, Florida on Thursday January 18, 1973 to her parents, Michi and Don. She was named after Don and, by all accounts, she was the apple of his eye. Michi said she was the only one of her daughters who was born on time, eager for her life ahead. It's also rumored she cried for the better part of her first two years. She grew up in Florida and then North Carolina with her sisters Hillary and Leslie, wearing out the Soundtrack from Grease acting out the parts, and having break dance battles on the sidewalk blasting NWA and 2 Live Crew.

After moving to Boone, NC and graduating from high school, she met her future husband Michael. It wasn't long before wedding bells rang, Mike and Jennifer walked hand-in-hand into the big world together. Both of their sons were born in Boone. Zach arrived in '92 followed by Jonathan in '96. They continued to seek new adventures and settled in Asheville for 15 years, where they raised their sons nestled in the mountains' protective hug.

Her final home in coastal Florida was even closer to her heart. It allowed her to be close to her mother and and to be outdoors, on or in the water. It soothed her, refreshed her. It cooled her supernova core which burned so hot. Her favorite days were spent finding new adventures in their little boat, the Minnow!

Jennifer spent most of her adult life helping people. She worked for 13 years at Sigma Alpha Iota International Music Fraternity, first as the Initiations Secretary and then for a decade as Office Manager. She was an integral part of their team and is still remembered fondly by its director, staff and members to this day.

Jennifer always wanted to help people in need. She watched a dozen medical/crime/fire shows weekly, fascinated by the selfless dedication these professionals demonstrated. Her final job was as a registrar at Manatee Memorial Hospital. She chaired many committees and eventually became the trainer for all registrars.

As devoted as Jenny was to her job, it paled in comparison to how much she loved her family. She always wanted the best outcomes for everyone and worked tirelessly to make good things happen for others. Through all of her families' trials, heartbreaks, illnesses and recoveries, she was there providing support.

She also loved her extended families, especially the children. From her granddaughter to her nieces and nephews, she found joy just being around them. Family was HAPPINESS to Jenny!

Sadly, our precious Jenny passed away on Friday November 10, 2023.

Jennifer is survived by her loving husband Michael Boykin, sons Zachary Boykin and Jonathan Boykin, granddaughter Lilly Raine Boykin (her heart) and fur baby Sydney.

She is survived by by her mother Michele Adel Mowery and her father Charles Mowery.

She is survived by her sister Hillary Haley, brother-in-law Tony Haley and their children Chris, Ben, Sam and Olivia.

She is survived by her sister Leslie Busse, brother-in-law Andrew Busse and their children Jake, Sarah and Gavin.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you send donations to www.savethemanatees.org.

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.rtslwr.com for the Boykin family.