Harry Thomas Jenkins III

Harry Thomas Jenkins III, affectionately known to friends as “Harry T.” and to his grandchildren as “Poppa,” passed away on October 5, 2026, at the age of 78. A resident of Mandeville, Louisiana, Harry was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, and a man whose humor, generosity, kindness, and compassion touched those fortunate enough to know him.

Born on August 10, 1948, in New Orleans, Louisiana, Harry was the son of the late Harry Thomas Jenkins Jr. and Gloria Newman Jenkins. Raised in the Irish Channel, he attended Our Lady of Good Counsel and Redemptorist High School. An athletic young man who enjoyed basketball and baseball, Harry maintained a lifelong affection for his New Orleans roots. He was especially proud of his Irish Channel heritage and his involvement with the Irish Channel and Corner Club Marching Clubs. A devoted New Orleans Saints fan, Harry was a season ticket holder from the team’s inaugural season in 1967. Through the victories, the heartbreaks, and everything in between, his loyalty to the black and gold never wavered.

Harry proudly served his country in the Army National Guard from 1967 to 1973.

On July 27, 1973, Harry married the love of his life, Kathleen, at St. Cecilia Catholic Church in New Orleans. Their marriage of 53 years was built on love, companionship, and devotion to family. Together, they raised three sons and created a lifetime of treasured memories.

Harry enjoyed a successful career in the automotive aftermarket industry, working as a manufacturer’s representative and with automotive and diesel service companies. Throughout his career, he held positions in sales, sales management, and business operations. His knowledge, determination, and ability to connect with people were hallmarks of his professional life.

Above all, Harry treasured his family. He was a loving husband to Kathleen, a proud father to his three sons, and an adoring grandfather. Known affectionately as “Poppa,” he found special joy in his grandchildren and the memories they created together. His sense of humor, generous spirit, and genuine concern for others will remain lasting parts of his legacy.

Harry is survived by his beloved wife, Kathleen Jenkins; his three sons, Harry T. Jenkins IV (Liane), Cory P. Jenkins (Jennifer), and Derek N. Jenkins (Jennifer); and his cherished grandchildren, Juliet, Landon, Eden, McKenna, Jillian, Nathan, Mariella, and Emmalyn.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Harry Thomas Jenkins Jr. and Gloria Newman Jenkins, and his beloved grandson, Mathieu James.

The family extends its heartfelt gratitude to St. Tammany Hospice and to Harry’s caregiver, Katie Booth, for the compassionate care, kindness, and support provided to Harry and his family.

Visitation and Funeral Mass

Family and friends are invited to a visitation on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, from 10:30 a.m. until noon, at Our Lady of the Lake Catholic Church in Mandeville, Louisiana. A Funeral Mass will immediately follow at noon at the church.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that memorial donations be made to the Make-A-Wish Foundation in Harry’s memory.

Arrangements are entrusted to Lake Lawn Metairie Funeral Home.

Harry will be remembered for the love he gave, the laughter he shared, and the lasting impression he made on those whose lives he touched. His memory will live on through his family and the many people who were blessed to know him.