Mildred Marie Jenkins

With profound sadness and immense love, we announce the passing of our beloved Mildred Marie Jenkins (Newton), age 79, of Vancleave, Mississippi, who peacefully entered her eternal home on July 10, 2026, surrounded by her loving family in the comfort of her own home.

Born on March 10, 1947, in Gilbertown, Alabama, Mildred was the cherished daughter of Vigil E. Newton and Lena M. Newton. She graduated from Vancleave High School with the Class of 1966 and went on to build a life rooted in faith, family, kindness, and hard work.

For 28 years, Mildred faithfully served the children and staff of Vancleave Upper Elementary as a beloved custodian with the Jackson County School System. To many, she was far more than a custodian—she was a familiar smile, a comforting presence, and a friend whose warmth and generosity touched countless lives. She carried herself with humility, grace, and a servant’s heart, leaving a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

Mildred found her greatest joy in caring for those she loved. Her kitchen was filled with the comforting aromas of homemade meals and freshly baked treats that brought family and friends together around the table. She had a remarkable gift for making everyone feel welcome, loved, and cared for. Her passion for flowers reflected her own gentle spirit—she found beauty in the simple things and nurtured everything around her with patience and love.

Above all else, Mildred’s greatest treasure was her family. She was a devoted wife, a loving mother, a proud grandmother, and a cherished great-grandmother. Her unconditional love, quiet strength, selfless heart, and unwavering faith created a legacy that will live on for generations. She was truly the heart of her family, and the love she gave so freely will forever remain in the hearts of those who knew her.

She is preceded in death by siblings Robert T. Newton and Mary E. Thompson.

She is survived by her loving husband, Sidney Earl Jenkins; siblings, Willie T. Newton Sr., Lou Ella Griffin, and Ruby Newton; her children, Richard E. Jenkins (Randa) and Sandi M. Reeves (Todd); grandchildren, Calligan Borries (Dustin), Sydne Stewart (Justin), Victoria Jenkins, Kaleigh Mason (Cody) and Nathan Jenkins (Briana); and treasured great-grandchildren, Cayden, Maecy, Kylar, Maddon, Maddox, Maddolyn, Elizabeth, Remington, Kasen, Hunter, Huntlee, Emarie, Everleigh, Oaklann, Carson, Kolson, Walker and Rowan; many extended family members and dear friends who will deeply miss her.

The family extends their heartfelt gratitude to the devoted staff of Bradford-O’Keefe for the compassionate care they provided, and to the many family members and friends whose love, prayers, and support have brought comfort during this difficult time.

A celebration of Mildred’s beautiful life will be held on Wednesday, July 15, 2026 at Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home in Vancleave. Visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by the funeral service at 11:00 a.m. Interment will follow at Vancleave Cemetery #1.

Though our hearts are broken by her absence, we find comfort in knowing that Mildred’s life was one of extraordinary love, kindness, and unwavering devotion. Her gentle spirit, warm smile, and selfless heart have left an everlasting imprint on all who knew her. She was, and always will be, deeply loved beyond words. While she will be profoundly missed every day, her memory will continue to bloom in every family gathering, every home-cooked meal, every flower that blossoms, and every act of kindness shared in her honor.

Bradford-O’Keefe Funeral Home is honored to serve the family of Mildred Marie Jenkins.