Bernice Mildred Jenkins

Obituary For Bernice Mildred Jenkins

Bernice Mildred Douglas Jenkins, lovingly known as Mildred by her family and friends, was born in Graham County Florida. She spent her early childhood in Chiefland, Florida and Bronson, Florida, before her family relocated to Clearwater, Florida, where they lived in the Yellow Quarter. At a young age, Bernice dedicated her life to Jesus and her family became members of St. John Missionary Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Hines.

In 1946, Bernice married Samuel Flagler and they moved to Syracuse, New York. While there, she was employed by General Electric and joined Second Olivet Church under the leadership of Reverend Mack. Through their union, they were blessed with three children: Samuel, Mattie, and DeBorah.

In 1961, Bernice returned to Clearwater, where she remarried the love of her life, John Jenkins. From this union, two more children, Victoria and John were born.

Bernice had a passion for education and was determined to achieve her goals, overcoming every obstacle in her path. She lived by the philosophy, “Quitting wasn't an option.” She even attended school alongside her children. She earned her high school diploma by attending night school at Middleton High School in Tampa. In 1971, her hard work paid off when she, along with her children, Mattie and Sidney, graduated from St. Petersburg College. Bernice earned a degree in early childhood education.

Bernice's love for teaching was evident throughout her life. She was blessed with the gift of teaching. She worked for Head Start, which led to her becoming one of the first African American women employed by the Pinellas County Child Care Licensing Board.

Bernice's love language was service. She served the Lord with gladness, and each night before bed, she would sing hymns and pray for her family, sealing her prayers with Psalms 118:6: “The LORD is on my side; I will not fear. What can man do to me?” She lived a FEARLESS life, both naturally and spiritually, and faithfully led by example. Her joy and purpose were found in leading the youth department, serving on the user board, teaching Sunday School, and presiding as President of the Senior Women's Deaconess Board. She also found joy in being one of the Golden Voices of her church. She loved practicing her speeches and welcomes with friends, always radiating excitement.

One thing is for certain; Bernice never met a stranger and was always ready to offer unsolicited advice. Some may say, she didn't sugarcoat her words. She believed in telling the hard truths, which left a lasting impact on all who knew her. She was a woman of wisdom, known for her practical advice and encouraging others to live their best lives.

Her wise words will be cherished forever by her children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, great-great grandchildren, and all who knew her. We can still hear her saying: Don't take education for granted. Get as much education as you can. Save your money. Never be broke, nor spend your last. God blesses the child that has their own. Independence gives you power. A wise man changes, but fools never do. We all have a nugget that we must hold onto and never let go.

In her final days, Bernice dreamed of returning home - fishing, family cookouts, baking sweet potato pies, singing around the piano, and gardening. Though we wished to fulfill her dreams, on Wednesday, September 18th, she peacefully received her eternal crown and answered the call to her heavenly home. “Well done, thy good and faithful servant. Enter into your rest.” Bernice lived a rich life on earth and has now gained an even richer one.

Bernice is preceded in death by her husband, John Whitt Jenkins; her mother, Mattie Singleton; her father, Lee Franklin; her bonus father, AC Douglas; her brothers, Hazel Franklin and Al Douglas; her sister, Irma Mitchem; and her son-in-law, William Robinson.

She leaves to cherish her memory…

Children: Samuel Flagler, John Jenkins, Mattie (Sidney) Odums, DeBorah Jackson, and Victoria Robinson

19 grandchildren

43 great-grandchildren

20 great-great-grandchildren

She is also survived by her friends who were like sisters: Betty Paige, Kellis Jean Glen, and Willie Zell Hamm.

A host of nieces, nephews, cousins, godchildren, friends, and her beloved church family.

Take your rest, Momma. Take your rest, Grandma. Take your rest, Sister. Take your rest, Auntie. Take your rest, Friend. We will see you again.

Public Viewing:
Friday, September 27, 2024
5:00 - 7:00 P.M.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue
Clearwater, Florida 33755

Celebration of Life Service:
Saturday, September 28, 2024
11:00 A.M.
St. John Missionary Baptist Church
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue
Clearwater, Florida 33755

Services Entrusted to The Care of:
Smith Young Funeral Home & Cremation Services
727-442-2388