Dale W. Jenkins

Dale W. Jenkins, 89, passed peacefully on June 23, 2026, just hours before her beloved husband, Clyde. Born on May 10, 1937, Dale lived a life filled with faith, love, laughter, and devotion to her family and friends. She was a devoted Christian whose faith guided her throughout her life.

Dale moved to Louisville in 1959 and began her career in the restaurant industry, where her warm personality, strong work ethic, and genuine care for others made lasting impressions on both coworkers and customers. Especially one customer, as that is where she met the love of her life, Clyde.

In retirement she embraced the Florida lifestyle and found joy in simple pleasures; playing cards, bingo and sunsets on Bowditch Beach. She treasured time spent with her family and friends and had a gift for making them laugh. Known for her quick wit and well-timed one-liners, Dale could always brighten a room with her sense of humor and mischievous smile.

Dale and Clyde were active members of Southwest Baptist Church in Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where they faithfully served, worshipped and built lasting friendships.

Returning to Louisville for her final years was no easy task for Dale. She wasn’t fond of the winter weather, but she soon found those dreary cold days warmed by new friendships developed within the Preston Village Senior Apartment community.

She is survived by her son, Barry Jenkins; daughters, Janice Basham (Jake) and Deborah Bonefont; grandchildren, Harrison Basham, Sara Basham (Niko Kampouris), Christy Behnke (Rob), Cierra Johnson, and Arianna Bonefont; sisters, Mary Nell Tichy and Dianne Hinkle; brother, Doyle Whitehead; and many extended family members and dear friends.

She was preceded in death by her son, Danny Mashburn, and brother, Jerry Whitehead.

Dale will be remembered for her steadfast faith, loving heart, generous spirit, and wonderful sense of humor. Her kindness, friendship, and ability to make others smile leave a legacy that will be cherished by all who knew and loved her.

Services will be at Atwood Wesleyan Church, 2201 Crittenden Drive, Louisville, KY 40217. Visitation Saturday July 18th from 1:00-2:00 with Memorial Service to begin at 2:00.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Shively Area Ministries.

May she rest in eternal peace, reunited with her beloved Clyde. After a lifetime together, they were separated by only eight hours—a testament to a love that neither time nor death could keep apart.