Gary Linn Jenkins, age 73 of Salem, passed away on Saturday, January 24, 2026, at Centralia Manor in Centralia, Illinois.

Gary was born on January 26, 1952, in Vandalia, Illinois, the son of Hershel and Betty (Geiler) Jenkins.   He married Judy K. (West) Jenkins on November 19, 1976, in Salem, Illinois and together they shared 49 years united in marriage.

Survivors include his wife, Judy of Salem; two children Amanda Kelley and husband Kyle of Swansea Wales, and Bryce Jenkins and wife Nicole of Salem; grandchildren, Isaac and Cooper Kelley, and Madison Burner and husband Jaxson; brother, Terry Jenkins and Dorothy; along with several brother’s and sister’s in-law and many nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Hershel and Betty Jenkins, and his mother and father in-law, Velma and Harry West.

Gary was a devoted member of the Salem Apostolic Church, where he and his wife faithfully attended.

Gary was employed by Egyptian Concrete in Salem and the Illinois Department of Transportation Highways Department.  When he wasn’t working, he stayed busy doing what he loved most — hunting, fishing, cutting wood, clearing brush, gardening, raising cattle, and building fences. Gary never met a project he didn’t like and was happiest when he had something to tinker with and his hands were hard at work.  Most importantly Gary loved his family and the time they spent together.

The family would like to extend a special thank you to Gary’s team of caregivers at Davita Dialysis and Centralia Manor for the great care that was given to Gary.

Celebration of Life services for Gary Linn Jenkins will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at the Salem Apostolic Church with Pastor Calvin Jean and Gary’s son-in-law, Pastor Kyle Kelley officiating.  There will be a time of visitation from noon until the time of the service.  In lieu of flowers memorial contributions can be made to Salem Apostolic Church Building Fund and will be received at the church or at Crouse Funeral Home who is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences and memories can be left at www.CrouseFH.com.