Robert Allen Jenkins

Robert Allen Jenkins, born March 6, 1952, in Indianapolis, Indiana, to the late Clifford and Betty (Revis) Jenkins, passed away peacefully on April 21, 2026, and was preceded in death by Ken Eller, Brynn Aylor, and Jim Cox. 

A 1970 graduate of South Newton High School, Rob developed a love for basketball at an early age. He helped lead South Newton to two sectional championships before continuing his basketball career at Indiana State. His passion for the game never faded—he went on to coach youth leagues, cheer loudly from the sidelines, and remained a devoted fan. Rob had an incredible memory for the game; you could ask him about any NBA player, and he could tell you their points, rebounds, assists, and even their shooting percentage.

He also had a deep love for the water. Whether it was little red or a cuddy cabin cruiser, Rob made the most of every moment. Family trips to Mark Twain Lake, Clinton Lake, Lake Houston, Lake Travis, and many weekends on the Illinois River were among his favorite memories. He loved skiing, tubing, and knee boarding—always up for fun and adventure.

Rob worked hard and lived life to the fullest. His outgoing personality and genuine smile made him a natural in sales. Over the years, he sold everything from paintings and wine to cars,security systems, and even seed corn—always enjoying the relationships he built along the way. 

Rob leaves behind a loving family who will cherish his memory: his son, Jason Jenkins of Conroe, Texas, his wife Sara, and their children, Cora and Lyla; his son, Josh Jenkins of New Castle, Indiana, his wife Emily, and their children, Bryce, Jacob, and Ava; his daughter, Jamie Belardo of Kapolei, Hawaii, her husband Jose, and their children, Kaydence, Brayden, Kalloway, Kallin, and Mikaila; and his daughter, Jacqueline Jenkins of Houston, Texas. 

He is also survived by his brother, Bill (Mary Ann) Jenkins and their son, Jeff Jenkins; his sister,Nancy (Larry) Buffington and her children, Jill Eddleman and Justin Cox; and his sister, Kathy Eller and her children, Kristina Bowery, Kimberly Mabe, Kae Ashleigh Hutchison, and Kurt Eller.

In the fall, a celebration of life will be held in his hometown of Kentland, Indiana. Arrangements have been entrusted to Hinsey-Brown Funeral Service in New Castle.