Nathaniel "Sparky" Jenkins, 78, of Jacksonville, peacefully entered the sunset of life on Wednesday, December 14, 2022 at PAM Health Specialty Hospital of Jacksonville. The son of Lucille Staten Jenkins and Joe Carl Jenkins, he was born on Sunday, August 20, 1944 in St. Augustine. He was educated in the St. Johns County School District and a 1963 graduate of Richard J. Murray High School. Nathaniel was united in marriage to Lily Pearl Jenkins on May 28, 1988. Nathaniel was employed as a Certified Nursing Assistant at Specialty Hospital in Jacksonville where he retired after 30 years. He also worked as an Operating Room Technician for a number of years. He enjoyed sports and prided himself on giving care to his family.

In addition to his parents, he was preceded in eternal rest by his four brothers, Allen, Malachi, Joe C. and Virgil; 5 sisters, Doris, Diane, Patricia, Carolyn and Grace.

He leaves to cherish his memories:  wife, Lily Pearl Jenkins; son, Akeem H. Jenkins; step-daughter, Alaha Williams; grandsons, Bryan Martinez Boler, Jr.; Armarta Nasir Gibbs; special niece, Marcie (Roger) Storey; and a host of nieces, nephews, cousins, friends and in-laws.

Celebration of Nathaniel's Life will be at 11 a.m., Friday, December 23, 2022, at Bethel Missionary Baptist Church, 222 Riberia St., St. Augustine, with visitation one hour prior. Reverend Sidney Hardy, Sr., Pastor, is the eulogist. Interment will be at Evergreen Cemetery, St. Augustine.