Richard Stephen Jenks passed away on February 11th at Yale-New Haven Hospital with family and friends at his side after a courageous battle with lung cancer. Richard (“Dick”) was born in New Albany, Indiana on September 12, 1950. He is survived by his mother, Maxine Call, father, Joseph Jenks Jr., step-mother, Patty Jenks, sister, Shari Loges, brother, Joseph Jenks III, niece, Tami Sturm Woodring and dear friends Jackie and David Dean and many other beloved family members. He is predeceased by his brother, Thomas Jenks.
Dick worked at Electric Boat for over 25 years in Piping Design. He started as a Draftsman Learner and retired as a Senior Designer. During his time there, he was an active member of the MDA / UAW 571, serving on their Civil Rights Committee and as an elected trustee. He lobbied in Washington to save the Trident program with Connecticut Congressional Representatives Sam Gejdenson and Christopher Dodd.
Dick had a love for music and was a talented blues harpist and vocalist, performing with various groups in the area in the 1970’s and 1980’s.
Richard was an active member of First Baptist Church of Waterford. He served in many capacities, including AWANA teacher, the Finance Committee and Executive Committee. He was also very active in the Prison Ministry at the Niantic Corrections Center for the past ten years.
Richard was beloved my many people in the community and touched many lives.
There will be a celebration of his life on Monday, February 15th at 11 AM at the First Baptist Church of Waterford. Donations may be made in his memory to the Yale-New Haven Hospital Medical Oncology Treatment Center Long Wharf / Smilow 8 or the First Baptist Church of Waterford.
Byles Memorial Home, 99 Huntington St., New London is assisting the family with services.