Raymond W. Jenkins, 95, of Haverhill, passed away Tuesday, July 12, at Merrimack Valley Hospice House in Haverhill.
He was born in Bradford, Jan. 3, 1921, son of the late Melvin and Ethel (Mortimer) Jenkins. He was educated in the Haverhill school system and graduated from Essex County Agricultural School. After graduation he enlisted in the Army and served during World War II. Jenkins was one of more than 160,000 troops to storm the beaches of Normandy. While in France, Jenkins was wounded while delivering a message to General Patton. He earned two Purple Hearts, a Bronze Star, the European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon and the Knight of the Legion of Honor Medal, the highest honor given by the French government. After his honorable discharge from the Army, he worked as a machinist for Davis and Furber Machine Co., North Andover, and also had a small farm at his home that he maintained for years. Jenkins was involved with various veterans’ organizations in and around Haverhill. He was an active member of the Disabled American Veterans chapter 20, Amvets post 147, VFW Lorraine post 29 & the American Legion post 4, Haverhill.
He was predeceased by his wife, Alice H. (Brightman) Jenkins, who passed away in 1995. He is survived by his sons David W. Jenkins and his wife Maryann of North Andover, Douglas E. Jenkins of Methuen, Daniel S. Jenkins of Danville, N.H., and Dennis V. Jenkins and his wife Yvonne of Arizona City, Ariz.; two brothers, Roscoe Jenkins of Haverhill and Stuart Jenkins of North Carolina; seven grandchildren, Tiana, Talissa, Amanda, Daniel, Allyse, Nathan and Alex; his caregiver Polly Jutras;several nieces, nephews; and long time friend, his cat Boo.
Relatives and friends are invited to attend his calling hours Monday, July 18, from 5 to 8 p.m., at H.L. Farmer and Sons Funeral Home, 106 Summer St., Haverhill. His graveside service takes place Tuesday, July 19, 1:30 p.m., in Elmwood Cemetery, Bradford. In lieu of flowers, Contributions in his memory may be made to Haverhill Veterans Housing, 65 Cedar St, Haverhill, MA 01832.
Rest in peace sir and thank you for your esteemed service to our country.