Newt A. Jenkins

Newt A. Jenkins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, and brother passed away September 10, 2015 in Oklahoma City. Newt was born in Lawton, OK to John Calvin Jenkins & Elsie Harbour. He attended Shawnee High School in Shawnee, OK, where he played football and was later inducted into the Shawnee Athletic Hall of Fame in 2001. At 20 he met the love of his life, “Okie” (Barbara) Hogue, while working at Pratt’s grocery store in Shawnee. It was love at first sight, and they wed on September 19, 1970. After studying business at Panhandle State and Oklahoma Baptist University, opportunity arose to own and operate Sonic restaurants in Tennessee, and in 1978 the family moved from Oklahoma. Settling in Camden, TN, Newt strove to establish a successful business and raise his family of four children. He enjoyed working outside, tending the land at his home and at a nearby property with a pond where the family shared many special times. In 1998, Newt semi-retired and returned to Oklahoma, moving the family to Oklahoma City. An avid sports fan, most recall Newt’s love for the Sooners. He was a nature lover and enjoyed spending time at lakes and rivers or visiting Wichita Wildlife Refuge and Mt. Scott. Above all, Newt treasured time with his family. He advocated a strong work ethic and treated others with fairness and kindness. Additionally, he felt strongly about the humane treatment of animals and taught his children to love and care for many beloved family pets. His generosity, warm heart, and sense of humor nurtured his loved ones over the years. Newt is survived by his wife, “Okie” (Barbara) Hogue Jenkins and his children: Annabel Jenkins (spouse Jacob and sons Jorik and Finn), Amber Balk (spouse Brad and daughter Bliss), Rick Jenkins (spouse Sarah and daughters Mandala and Alexandria), and Sam Jenkins. Newt was one of 5 children and is survived by two sisters and two brothers, Darlene (Doll), Nancy, Bob, and Eugene. Just before his death at 66, Newt enjoyed a wonderful weekend birthday celebration. He remarked on several occasions during his final days, “Isn’t this the life?!” His heart was full and pulsed its final beat while surrounded by his wife and children who held him in love and prayers.