Dr. Leon D. Jenkins of Lebanon, Mo was born in Douglas County, Missouri on August 17, 1932. He passed away on March 10, 2024, at his home in Lebanon at the age of 91. He was preceded in death by his parents, Earnie and Lora Jenkins, his sister, June Hebden, and his wife, Phoebe Charlene Jenkins.
Dr. Jenkins proudly served his country in The United States Navy from 1950-1954. After receiving a B.S. in Agriculture from The University of Missouri, he graduated from the University of Missouri College of Veterinary Medicine in 1962. He practiced veterinary medicine in Marshfield for eight years and in Lebanon for 45 years. He had great compassion for his clients and their animals.
In September of 1954, he married Phoebe Charlene Hedrick. To that union, four children were born. They were married until her death in December of 1995. In June of 1996, he married Connie Wood. They were married until his death.
He leaves behind his wife, Connie Jenkins of the home, his daughters, Janet Switzner (Dan) and Pamela Underwood (Kim), his sons, Jeff Jenkins (Liz) and Mark Jenkins (Kim), and stepson, Brian Henson. Also included are 11 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
He made his profession of faith in Jesus Christ in his youth.
He loved showing Missouri fox trotting horses and was proud to be the official veterinarian of the Missouri Fox Trotting Horse Breed Association for 15 years.
He enjoyed woodworking, welding and building, and would often be found in his shop working on his projects. He was a man of many skills and talents.
He was a beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and friend. He was dearly loved by his family, friends and clients, and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
In lieu of flowers, please make memorial donations to the animal shelter or animal rescue organization of your choice.
Funeral arrangements to be announced.
