Arlene Vauncille Jenkins

Arlene Vauncille Jenkins

August 16, 1938 - August 7, 2026

Psalm 25:1 "Unto thee, O lord, do I lift up my soul"

In loving Memory of our matriarch Arlene Vauncille Jenkins who passed from this life on August 7, 2026. Ariene was born on August 16, 1938, in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma to the late McKinley and Alice Jordan. Arlene was raised in a loving family alongside of her siblings Allie "Maxine" Jordan, Augustus Jordan, Alfred Merril Jordan, Howard McKinley Jordan, Alphonso Grover Jordan, Samuel Jordan, who preceded her in death. Larry Dennis Jordan and Sy- Sylvester Jordan lives on to cherish her memory.

Arlene grew up in Oklahoma City, where she attended elementary school and begal her high school education at Wewoka High School. During her teenage years, she moved to Madera, California, graduated from Madera High School, and attended Fresno City College. In 1957, Arlene married the love of her life, Clifford Jenkins. Together, they shared 63 beautiful years of marriage, building a life rooted in love, commitment, and family as they journeyed side by side in the pursuit of happiness. Their marriage was a testament to enduring love, unwavering commitment, and deep family bonds. Their union was blessed with two daughters, Joyce Renae Jenkins-Henderson and Sonya Cliffette Smith, who brought them immense pride, joy, and countless treasured memories.

Arlene cherished the close family bonds she shared with her sister-in-law, Glenda Conteh; her brother-in-law, Charles Purdom, and his wife, Rhonda; and Lisa Jordan, the beloved wife of her brother, Sylvester Jordan. Aunt Alice Jordan wife of Larry Jordan and Carolyn Jordan wife of Uncle Howard Jordan and Anthony Goods and wife Martha Ramos (Pinky). These relationships brought her great joy and were a treasured part of her life. Arlene began her professional career with Woolworth's in 1960.

She later joined Bank of America, where she worked as a teller and devoted many years to serving customers with kindness and dedication. Through her strong work ethic, professionalism, and commitment to excellence, she built a successful career. When Papa encouraged her to retire and focus on being a stay-at-home grandmother, Arlene reluctantly agreed, choosing to devote herself faithful to her family. She later retired from Bank of America leaving behind a legacy of both professional achievement and unwavering love for her family.

The Jenkins family made their home in Oroville, California, beginning in 1960. In 1988, Arlene and Clifford relocated to Phoenix, Arizona, where they resided for the remainder of their lives. She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, best friend and lifelong partner Clifford Jenkins, who passed away on February 8, 2020. Family was the heart and soul of Arlene's world,

She treasured every opportunity in spending time with her loved ones, creating cherished memories that will forever be held close by those who knerv and loved her. She especially enjoyed road trips with her daughters, being pampered, shopping for antiques, listening to music and enjoying family dinners and desserts.

Nothing brought her greater joy than her "babies' babies," as she affectionately called her great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. She delighted in spending time with them, sharing

stories, laughter, and unconditional love while watching them grow. Arlene was a strong, loving, and devoted woman whose presence could light up a room. She was known for her honest nature and ability to speak her mind with both courage and in love. Never afraid to "give orders," she kept her family grounded, guided, and united, leaving behind countless memories that now bring smiles, laughter, and comfort to those who loved her most.

Arlene leaves to cherish her memory her daughters, Joyce Renae Jenkins-Henderson and Sonya CIiffette Smith; the sons she lovingly raised, Julius Mottley and John Poole; six grandchildren; l0 great-grandchildren; one great-great-grandchild; her goddaughter Rochelle (Shelly) Vauncille Welch and great goddaughter, Chryselle Williams, her dearest brothers Larry Jordan and Sy-Sylvester Jordan; and a host of family and dear friends. As the family's beloved matriarch, Arlene's love, wisdom, and guidance touched generations. Though she is no longer with us, her legacy will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.

A Moment of Atonement

2 Corinthians 5:8 " We are confident, I say, and willingly rather to be absent from the body, and to be present with the Lord"

As we lift our hearts to celebrate the life and legacy of Arlene "Nana" Jenkins, we find comfort in God's Word and promise, knowing she's now in the presence of her Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Though she will be deeply missed, her love, faith, and strength live on in the family she cherished and the lives she touched. With grateful hearts, let us celebrate our beloved matriarch, whose legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations.

In closing, Arlene's legacy is a testament of compassion, devotion, and unwavering faith. May we honor her memory by carrying forward the values she instilled in us ravish the love she so freely

shared. Forever loved, forever remembered. Nana, you will always be in our hearts, minds, and spirits with love your family...

Visitation will be held at Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens, 4310 East Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, US, on August 17, 2026, from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm.

A Funeral will follow at Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens, 4310 East Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, US, on August 17, 2026, from 12:00 pm to 1:00 pm.

Committal will take place at Resthaven / Carr-Tenney Mortuary & Memorial Gardens, 4310 East Southern Ave, Phoenix, AZ 85042, US, on August 17, 2026, from 1:00 pm to 1:30 pm.