Tom Jenkins

November 1, 1944 – July 31, 2026

Tom Jenkins, 81, of Melbourne, Florida, passed away peacefully on July 31, 2026, surrounded by his wife and children after a courageous battle with kidney disease.

Tom was born on November 1, 1944, in Louisville, Kentucky. In 1954, his family relocated to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, where he developed a lifelong passion for public service. He earned a Bachelor of Business Administration from Florida Atlantic University and later received a Master of Public Administration from Nova University.

Tom began his career in public administration with the City of Surfside before becoming Town Administrator for the Town of Davie in the mid-1970s. He later served as Assistant Broward County Administrator, where he earned a reputation as a respected and visionary leader. In 1986, he accepted the position of Assistant County Manager for Brevard County. He was subsequently appointed Brevard County Manager, a role he proudly held for 17 years. Tom retired from public service before returning as Chief Administrative Officer for the Brevard County Sheriff's Office, where he faithfully served another five years before permanently retiring.

For decades, Tom dedicated his life to serving the citizens of Brevard County with integrity, wisdom, and steady leadership. He was widely respected for his professionalism, his ability to bring people together, and his unwavering commitment to improving the community. In recognition of his exceptional service, he received numerous honors throughout his career.

Tom also devoted nine years of service to the Suntree Country Club Board and numerous committees, dedicating countless hours to improving the club's operations and long-term financial health. His commitment, leadership, and vision continue to have a lasting impact on the club.

Beyond his career, Tom's greatest joy was his family. He was a devoted husband, loving father, proud Papa, mentor, and loyal friend whose quiet strength, generosity, and wonderful sense of humor touched everyone who knew him. Affectionately known by many as "The Big Cheese," Tom had an incredible ability to make people laugh while making them feel heard, valued, and welcome.

Tom loved America and was deeply patriotic. He believed in service, hard work, and treating others with kindness and respect. He was a passionate fan of Florida State University football and the Miami Dolphins, and he enjoyed countless rounds of golf with his lifelong group of friends, the "Charlie's Angels."

Tom's grandchildren each held a special place in his heart. Casey cherished their time together at the beach, while Payton's caring nature and love of softball and basketball brought him great pride. One of his greatest joys was cheering on his beloved grandson, Blake, at football, basketball, golf, and lacrosse games. Above all, Tom treasured the time he spent with his wife, Barbara, and his family.

Tom was preceded in death by his parents, Herb and May Jenkins.

He is survived by his devoted wife, Barbara Jenkins; his daughter, Kristi Worley, of Melbourne, Florida; and his grandson, Blake Worley. He is also survived by his son, Kenny Worley, and his wife, Christy Worley, of Tallahassee, Florida, along with their daughters, Payton Worley and Casey Zelaya, and Casey's husband, Cisco Zelaya, of Houston, Texas.

Tom is also survived by his brother, Terry Jenkins, and his wife, Lynn, of Boynton Beach, Florida; his niece, Kerry Jenkins, and her children, Shea and Avery; and his nephew, Neal Jenkins, and his wife, Kim, along with their sons, Joshua and Jason. He is further survived by his sister, Sue Reese, of Augusta, Georgia; and his nephew, Eric Parker, his wife, Kimberly, and their daughter, Katherine.

Tom's legacy is one of leadership, humility, service, and love. He believed that true success was measured not by titles, but by the lives you touched and the difference you made. His example will continue to inspire all who had the privilege of knowing him.

A celebration of Life will take place on Saturday, August 15, 2026 5 PM to 8 PM at Suntree Country Club, 300 Country Club Dr. Melbourne, FL 32940

In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation in Tom’s honor.