Charles Gary Jenkerson

Charles Gary Jenkerson, born March 13, 1945, died in his sleep March 22, 2024, in Sioux Falls, SD. He grew up in the St. Louis area, served in Vietnam, earned a PhD, then enjoyed a career as a teacher in the Cape Girardeau, MO public school system. 

He never asked for anything, was grateful for whatever good that came his way, and supported his students, his family, and his friends quietly and unconditionally. He was a man of many words, and though they were spoken sparingly they always held great meaning. He was most content amongst trees and water, and in the company of family and friends. He treasured his loved ones, and if you were in his circle he undoubtedly never told you, but you knew he appreciated and valued you. Anyone who met him was struck by his genuinely sweet smile and non-judgmental attitude. 

Gary is preceded in death by his parents Charley and Glenna, and his dear sweet brother Dale.

All the better for his influence, his survivors include: his favorite sister Sharon (Missouri); his children Calli and husband Thomas (South Dakota), Christopher (Missouri), and Benjamin (Illinois); his grandchildren Lucy Grey (South Dakota), Elenore (Wyoming), Sadie (South Dakota), Chloe (Missouri), Josephine (Missouri), and Augie (Missouri); his childhood buddies (PHAC forever!); and so many co-workers/friends.

A Memorial Celebration will be held 2:00 to 5:00 PM, Tuesday, June 11, 2024, at My Daddy’s Cheesecake, 265 S. Broadview St., Cape Girardeau, MO.  Snacks and dessert will be served.

A Graveside service will take place 11:00 AM, Saturday, June 15, 2024, the Crossroads Cemetery, 5958 Missouri H, Leasburg, MO.  Following the inurnment, a Memorial Celebration will be 12:00 PM -3:00 PM, at the Sullivan Community Center, 730 W. Main St., Sullivan, MO.  Lunch and desserts will be served.