William Joseph "Bill" Jenkins

William Joseph "Bill" Jenkins, age 85, passed away Thursday, July 9, 2026 at the North Mississippi Baptist Memorial Hospital in Oxford, Mississippi.

Funeral services for Bill be held at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 in the Martin Willingham Memorial Chapel of Wells Funeral Home with the interment to follow at Forrest Memorial Park in Batesville, Mississippi. The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service.

Bill was born on July 8, 1941 in Thomasville, Georgia to the late Joseph Louie Jenkins and Annie Lou Owens Jenkins. He entered the world with a spirit of determination that would define his entire life. After graduating from high school, Bill wasted no time stepping into the working world, quickly pursuing his passion for the trades. He completed his certification at the plumbers local union #17 in Memphis, Tennessee, setting the foundation for a long and successful career. Bill dedicated his life to his work as a plumbing contractor, proudly owning and operating Raleigh Plumbing Co., a business that bore the mark of his integrity, expertise, and tireless work ethic. Raleigh Plumbing Co. was formed by Bill and his brother David.

Bill's zest for life extended well beyond his professional accomplishments. He was known for his avid enthusiasm for fishing and gardening, often sharing the bounty of his gardens with loved ones. Bill also had a genuine appreciation for old cars, a deep love for classic country music, and riding motorcycles—favorites that sparked lively conversation and happy times.

Bill enjoyed traveling, often finding himself exploring new places, taking in the beauty of the world around him, and making special trips to New Orleans to watch the Saints play football—a pastime that brought him immense joy.

Perhaps one of Bill’s proudest personal achievements was his exceptional skill in barbecue cooking. He enjoyed preparing barbecue for many events and competitions, and was recognized for his culinary talents when he placed at the renowned Memphis in May festival.

Throughout his life, Bill was surrounded by family who meant the world to him. Together with his former wife, Karla Jenkins, they raised four children: Bobbie Hughes (Rodney) of Water Valley, MS, Sandy Smith (Tony) of Batesville, MS, JoAnn Keel (Kevin) of Hernando, MS, and Angela Adams (Mark) of Water Valley, MS. He is also remembered by his brother James Jenkins (Kathleen) of Collierville, TN.

His legacy continues through his grandchildren: Sean Hughes, Allison Hughes, Leighann Richardson, Joseph Keel, James Keel, Karly Green, Anna Grace “Gracie” Adams, and Madison “Maddie” Adams. Bill was blessed with 8 great-grandchildren: Jaxon Craven, Ryan Craven, Hazel Hughes, Tyler Richardson, Lettie Keel, Kemper Keel, Walker Green, and Lawson Green.

Bill re-married, Edith “Edie” Jenkins, and together they continued his passion for traveling until her passing. Along with Edie and his parents, Bill was preceded in death by his brother, David Jenkins, and his sister, Jayne Clark.

In lieu of flowers, the family ask that any memorial contributions be made in Bill’s name to the charity of your choice.