With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of Clareice D. Jenkins, affectionately known as “Mama Jenkins.” Mrs. Jenkins passed away on Oct. 8 in a Nashville hospital surrounded by her daughters, family, and friends.
Mrs. Jenkins was born in Escatawpa, Miss., on June 17, 1934, and graduated from Magnolia High School. She then moved with her sister, Tommye, to Chattanooga. Let’s say Chattanooga would not be the same.
Mrs. Jenkins, a member of the Basilica of Sts. Peter and Paul, held several positions over the years—as a housekeeper, at Memorial Hospital, at Cutter Laboratories, at Buster Brown, and the last and most impactful position was with the city of Chattanooga as director of Parks and Recreation.
She was a cherished member of the community at age 90, and her legacy is woven into the fabric of countless lives. She was a mentor to many generations and dedicated her life to nurturing the youth and anyone else in her sphere, imparting wisdom, kindness, and a sense of purpose to all who had the privilege to know her.
Mrs. Jenkins enjoyed spending time playing basketball, watching sports, bowling, and teaching aerobics in her younger years. She was skilled in a variety of crafts: ceramics, glass staining, leather stamping, and all things artsy. Whether she was driving the blue Astro van or at the center, she was always available to give advice, provide encouragement, employ the rules of ladylike behavior or enforce manners. She was also known for her sense of style; she loved fashion and decorating. Her community activism led her to become a member of the Glenwood and Avondale neighborhood associations.
Her fondest times were spent with her many siblings at family functions, traveling, and shopping with her daughters. She was particularly fond of hanging out with long-term friends and Vel-vet Social Club members. Her warmth and generosity were a beacon of hope and guidance.
Mrs. Jenkins will be deeply missed, but her spirit will continue to inspire and uplift us.
Rest in peace, Clareice “Mama Jenkins.” Your light shines on in our hearts.
Mrs. Jenkins was preceded in death by her mother, Alma King Norvel; her stepfather, Norman Norvel Sr.; her husband, Alfonso Jenkins; her brothers-in-law, Edgar Montgomery Jr. and Odell Hudson Sr.; sisters-in-law, Mary Weaver and Helen Rucker; brothers, Herman Carter, Thomas Safford (Jeanette), and James Safford (Alfratis); and sisters, Norma Norvel, Ollie Williams, Cathy Norvel, Helen Norvel, and Dorothy Hudson.
She leaves to cherish her memory her beloved daughters, Alesia Jenkins of Chattanooga, Cassandra Jenkins Cooper (Marcus) of Nashville, and surrogate sons, Edward Harrison of Queens, N.Y., and Dexter Joshen of Chattanooga; her siblings, Tommye Montgomery of Nashville, Alma Norvel of Atlanta, Norman Norvel Jr. (Karin) of Asheville, N.C., Emma Norvel of Syracuse, N.Y., Iona Putmon (Willie) of Syracuse N.Y.; and a host of nieces, nephews, extended relatives, and friends.
A funeral service for Mrs. Jenkins was held on Oct. 16, with a burial service following in Chattanooga National Cemetery.
