Donna Jean (McKenney) Jinkins, a cherished soul and beacon of faith, passed away peacefully on August 7, 2024, at the age of 75, due to complications of liver disease. Born on June 3, 1949, in East Jordan, Michigan, Donna's life journey came to a gentle close in Covert Township, Michigan, surrounded by the love of her family and friends.

Donna, known affectionately to all as a friendly, faith-filled, and spirited individual, graduated from Reeths-Puffer High School in Muskegon, Michigan. She dedicated many years of hard work and passion to JC Penney Co., where she excelled as a merchandiser and assistant store manager in various locations, including Benton Harbor, Holland, and Bloomington, Indiana.

She retired at the age of 63, after which she devoted herself to caring for her aging parents with the unwavering support of her beloved husband, Marvin "Leroy" Jinkins. Donna often expressed her love and gratitude for Leroy, saying, "Other than the Lord, my biggest support. Oh how I love him."  Her commitment to family was evident not only in her personal life but also through her deep involvement in her church community.

Donna was a dedicated Sunday school teacher, Awana's coach, and an active member of Lakeshore Bible Church in Hagar Township. Her warmth and genuine care made her the first to befriend many new members, creating lifelong bonds that extended over fifty years. At the time of her passing, she was an active participant in the First General Baptist Church in Coloma, Michigan, where she particularly cherished the joy of singing praises to God. Donna's unwavering faith in Christ began in her youth and flourished throughout her life, playing a central role in her marriage to Leroy, whom she met and married at church on May 2, 1969.

Donna's love for family was unparalleled. She was the proud mother of Jason (Serena) Jinkins and Chasity Adams, and a loving mother-in-law to Jerry Adams. Her role as a grandmother to Samantha Adams (Kristopher Walmer) and Kelsey Adams (Scott Liggett), and as a great-grandmother to Alexander Peters, Jaycee & Noah Liggett, and Brayden & Brylee Walmer, brought her immense joy. She was particularly excited to greet her newest great grandbaby due in December 2024 noting that she "will have the best seat for the event" sitting at the side of our maker who creates all things.  Her parents, Cyril James and Edna Louise McKenney (Hooker) both proceeding her in death. She is survived by siblings Richard (Sue), Sharon Veen, Cynthia Tasker, and Barbara Nauta (Chuck), along with many nieces, nephews, great-nieces, and great-nephews, held a special place in her heart.  Beyond her family and church life, Donna was an avid bowler, a lover of singing, reading, and crafting. She never missed a family event, always prioritizing her loved ones after her devotion to God.

Her presence was a testament to the adage often associated with the author Edward Everett Hale: "The making of friends who are real friends is the best token we have of a man's success in life."  Donna leaves behind a legacy of kindness, faith, and unwavering support. Her life was a living example of the impact one person can have on a community, and the countless friends that became family along her life's journey are a testament to her loving spirit. Donna Jean (McKenney) Jinkins will be deeply missed, but her light will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those she touched. Her story is not one of sorrow, but a celebration of a life well-lived, a journey marked by love, faith, and the joy of song.

Services will be held on Saturday, August 17, 2024, at First General Baptist Church located on North Shore Drive in Coloma, MI 49038.

A visitation for friends and family will begin at 10:00 a.m., followed by a short sermon.  The floor will then be open for guests to speak and share stories.

The church will provide a fellowship lunch immediately following the service.  Anyone wishing to help may bring a dish to pass or leave a donation to the church at the time of the meal. Envelopes will be provided.