Dr. Michael W. Jenkins, a man of deep and abiding Christian faith, was a beloved husband, devoted father, adoring grandfather, and compassionate businessman. Born August 16, 1965, in Farmington, New Mexico, and passed away November 30, 2025, in Dallas, surrounded by his family.

Mike is preceded in death by his parents, Karl and Jacqueline Jenkins; his brother, Dr. David Jenkins; and his in-laws, Bubba and Janita Barnes. Mike is survived by his wife, Kim Jenkins; daughters, Chelsea and Steven Christopher, and Courtney Jenkins and Jeremy Withrow; and grandchildren, Beau Christopher and Bella Christopher. Brother Ryan and Heather Jenkins. Sisters-in-laws, Stacy Barnes, Sandy Jenkins, and Tammy and Billy Trichel, along with numerous nieces, nephews, aunts, and cousins.

Mike is also survived by a vast multitude of brothers and sisters in Christ, and generations of cherished colleagues and students from youth ministry and Kilgore College. To know Mike was to be welcomed instantly—once you met him, you became family.

Mike's life was centered on his deep and abiding love for God. As an ordained Deacon and Minister, Mike, with the unwavering support of his wife, Kim, devoted 16 years to serving as the Youth Pastor at Trinity Baptist Church. This ministry became a significant channel for impact, reaching countless lives not only throughout Texas but also across the globe through short-term mission projects.

Mike was a dedicated lifelong learner. He graduated from Corsicana High School (1983) and earned a Bachelor of Business Administration (BBA) from Baylor University (1987). His pursuit of knowledge led him to complete a Master of Business Administration at UT Tyler and a Doctorate in Business Administration from Northcentral University of Arizona.

Mike began his career at Kilgore College 35 years ago as a coordinator of a grant program. He held many positions through the years, including Director of Human Resources, Vice President of Student Development, and, most recently, Executive Vice President of Internal Collaboration and Strategic Initiatives. His commitment to excellence in his field was formally recognized in 2012 when the Texas Association of Community Colleges presented him with the Carl M. “Cheesie” Nelson Award for outstanding leadership.

Mike was instrumental in the successful completion and coordination of key recent campus projects. These included the construction of the new Torrence Heath Science Center, the Kilgore College pedestrian bridge, and the Transportation Institute.

Beyond his administrative role, his true passion lay in supporting student organizations; he notably served as the administrator for Phi Theta Kappa and the Rangerettes. His profound connection to the Rangerette organization was recognized when he was named "Honorary Rangerette Forever." Mike also served the local community by serving on the Chambers of Commerce for both Gilmer and Henderson, as well as the East Texas Literacy Council Board of Directors.

Mike’s calm demeanor and profound servant’s heart left an indelible mark on his family, colleagues, and every student he encountered. He was a solid, reliable, and humble leader who set a remarkable example at home, in church, at work, and in his community. There were times when “Mike” helped students who never knew his title or position in the college. If he saw a need, he would be the first one to fulfill it. Whether it was helping a student navigate a crisis or shop-vacuuming a flooded classroom late at night, countless tasks were taken care of through his efforts, often with no one ever being made aware of the initial problem. Away from his professional duties, Mike found peace and satisfaction in his yard. He passionately cared for his extensive plant collection and took immense pride in mowing his lawn.

Above all his accomplishments, Mike was an extraordinary husband and father. He and Kim loved to travel together, exploring over 15 countries. Mike was a deeply active and reliable presence in his daughters' lives; from serving as Softball Coach to Cheer Dad, he was a fixture at every game and activity. Their home has always been a welcoming hub where everyone felt like family. This love carried over into being an adoring and active Papi to Beau and Bella.

Mike poured his heart into his family, his faith, and his work, leaving the world a far better place than he found it. Well done, good and faithful servant.

To honor Mike’s dedication to student success, the family requests that memorial contributions be directed to the following initiatives:

David Toon Building Fund at Trinity Baptist Church, PO Box 8286, Longview, Texas, 75607

Mike Jenkins Athletic Trainer Scholarship or Dr. Mike Jenkins Rangerettes Forever Scholarship. Contact the Kilgore College Foundation at 903-988- 7521 or email mholmes@kilgore.edu. Checks can be mailed to Kilgore College Foundation, 1100 Broadway, Kilgore, TX 75662

 Wake of Remembrance will be held from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM on Friday, December 5, 2025 at Trinity Baptist Church, 5041 Estes Parkway, Longview, Texas 75603. A service celebrating the life of Dr. Mike W. Jenkins will take place at 10:00 AM on Saturday, December 6, 2025 at Trinity Baptist Church, officiated by Rev. Murry Kimball and Dr. Bill Holda.