Donald F. "Donnie" Jenkins, Jr. , age 68 of Elwood, passed away on Friday, November 19, 2021 surrounded by his family at his home following an extended illness.  He was born March 17, 1953 in Anderson, the son of Don and June (Essex) Jenkins, Sr.  Donnie was a graduate of Anderson High School and then served in the U.S. Army.  He was a semi-truck driver for 30 years for numerous companies until he retired in 2016.  One of Donnie's favorite companies to drive for was J & N Trucking.  He married Deborah Hall on December 8, 1988, and they shared over 32 years of marriage together.  Donnie was a simple man who enjoyed being outdoors, hunting, and fishing.  He truly loved his career of driving a semi all over the country.  Donnie also formerly coached youth baseball for many years and competitively race go-karts.  More than anything, Donnie cherished the time he spent with his family.

Donnie's family includes his wife, Debbie Jenkins of Elwood; 4 children, Dawn Torres of Columbus, Curt Hall of Muncie, Danielle (husband Phillip) Thomas of Frankton, and Lyndzey (husband Tommy) Sciscoe of Frankton; sister, Tina Roehrs of Virginia; 5 grandchildren, Dillon Torres, Zack Torres, KC Jenkins-Burhorn, Austin Jenkins, and Gracie Smith; and several nieces and nephews.  Donnie was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, David Jenkins.

A memorial service celebrating Donnie's life will be conducted at 4:00 pm on Tuesday, November 23, 2021 at Copher-Fesler-May Funeral Home in Elwood with members of his family officiating.  Military Honors will immediately follow the service by the U.S. Army and Elwood V.F.W. Honor Guard.  Visitation for family and friends will be held from 2:00 to 4:00 pm prior to the memorial service on Tuesday at the funeral home.   Health precautions for the safety of the family and all visitors are greatly appreciated.  Memorial contributions are suggested to the Traumatic Brain Injury Foundation for Wounded Warriors - tbiwarriorsfoundation.com through the funeral home.  Online condolences and memories may be shared at www.copherfeslermay.com.