Calvin E. Jenkins Sr.

December 27, 1952 — January 23, 2024

Calvin E. Jenkins, Sr. “Stretch” was born on December 27, 1952, in Chicago, IL to the late Mr. Vergene Jenkins and Mrs. Shirley Thompson-Jenkins.

Calvin accepted Christ at an early age at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, in Chicago, IL. He later joined Loving Rock Missionary Baptist Church in Chicago, IL, and served as a Deacon and a guitar player. Calvin loved to play his guitar during his spare time. Calvin worked at Sears Roebuck and Company for 12 years where he met the love of his life Irma McGowan. Calvin and Irma were married on December 19, 1981, and raised one child. In 1985, Calvin started at the CME Group as a Shipping Coordinator and retired after 35 years of service. In 2002, the family became members of the Living Word Christian Center, Forest Park, IL and Calvin served on the Kingdom Running Club.

Calvin graduated from Von Stuben High School in 1971 and he was on the basketball team. A few years later, he graduated from Northeastern University in 1975.

Calvin “Stretch” was born with a generous heart for helping everyone everywhere. While serving on the Kingdom Running Club, Calvin ran and completed nine full marathons (26.2 miles), ten half marathons (13.1 miles), and one ultra marathon (31.1 miles). Even though Calvin was exhausted from running, he would wait until the last person crossed the finish line before leaving the race course. During the pandemic, he speed-walked 3 - 5 miles several times weekly.

On Tuesday, January 23, 2024, at 10:04 am, Calvin gained his wings and went to be with the Lord. Calvin would want us to know that he ran the race, finished the course, and is now walking and running again. Calvin would want us to be kind to one another, to love and care for your family, friends, and colleagues. Also, he would want us to always remain positive and put Jesus first.

Calvin leaves to cherish his memories: His dedicated wife, Irma Jenkins; son, Calvin Jenkins, Jr. (C.J.); one half-sister, Jerone Jenkins-Durr; one nephew, Jamey Jenkins (Calicia); one niece, Jacqueline McGrew; extended family (from Mississippi) sisters and brothers-in-law, Virginia Boykin (Charles), Pearley McGowan, David McGowan (Jeanette), Alexander McGowan, Dorothy Mae McGowan, Roberta White, Johnny McGowan and Robert Earl McGowan; one special pet, “Cindy” the cat; and a host of aunts; uncles; nieces; nephews; cousins; and friends.

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Memorial Service

Friday, February 2, 2024

10:00 - 11:00 am (Central time)

Living Word Christian Center

7600 Roosevelt Rd, Forest Park, IL 60130

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