Bessie Lee Jenkins

Obituary For Bessie Lee Jenkins

Bessie Lee Jenkins was born on February 22, 1928, in Safford, Alabama to the late Iree Lily and Charles Williams.

She attended local schools in Selma, Alabama. Bessie was joined in Holy Matrimony to Northrop Jenkins and in 1944, they moved to Clearwater, Florida, then to Tennessee and eventually returned to Clearwater. Bessie dedicated her career to serving several private families for many years, eventually retiring and enjoying life to the fullest.

She served faithfully as a member of the choir and usher board at St. John Primitive Baptist Church, until she could no longer attend. She found joy in singing, dancing, and expressing her vibrant personality through fashion. With an impeccable sense of style, she was always elegantly dressed and radiated grace. Her heart overflowed with love for everyone she met, embracing life with kindness and generosity. A true giver with a heart of gold, she never hesitated to help others, always putting their needs before her own.

On Monday, February 24, 2025, I watched her reach up to the angels to take her home to heaven.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her sons, Wilbert Stanley, Winthrop Jenkins and Larry Jenkins.

She leaves to cherish a lifetime of precious memories…

Daughters: Annie Campbell and Jacqueline Walters, both of Clearwater, FL

15 grandchildren: Shalanda, Eric, Vanessa, Harry, Jermaine, Tyson, Chad, Montrel, Travis, Kinte, Terrence, Rosalyn, Melissa, Linda, Bridgett and Sherill

40 great-grandchildren

20 great-great grandchildren

4 great-great-great grandchildren

Public Visitation – Friday, March 7, 2025, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. at St. John Primitive Baptist Church, 1002 Palmetto Street, Clearwater, Florida 33755

Celebration of Life Service – Saturday, March 8, 2025 – 11:00 a.m. at St. John Primitive Baptist Church, 1002 Palmetto Street, Clearwater, Florida 33755

Services Entrusted To The Care of Smith-Young Funeral Home, 1005 Howard Street, Clearwater, Florida 33756, 727-442-2388