David Leo Jenkins

Mr. David Leo Jenkins, beloved husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and dedicated educator, peacefully entered into eternal rest on March 25, 2025. He was the cherished son of Mary Lee and Evans Jenkins and a proud native of Pendleton, South Carolina.

David’s life was defined by his unwavering commitment to education and service to others. A graduate of Pendleton High School, he went on to attend South Carolina State College, where he earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies in 1955. Following his graduation, David proudly served in the U.S. Army from 1956 to 1958, fulfilling his military obligations before furthering his education. In 1966, he earned a Master of Arts and 30 hours above in Educational Administration from North Carolina Central University in Durham, NC.

A lifelong educator, David dedicated over 44 years to shaping young minds. His career began in 1958 as an elementary school teacher in Rock Hill, SC, and he later retired as an assistant principal with the Lancaster High School System in 1991. However, his passion for teaching never diminished, and he continued to inspire students as a history instructor at Clinton Junior College in Rock Hill, SC. Over the years, David taught a variety of subjects, including world history, economics, civics, and middle school mathematics, and also served as a guidance counselor. His legacy of impact on countless students will be remembered for generations.

David was united in love and marriage to Artyce Amelia Walker Jenkins, who preceded him in death in 2016. Together, they shared 58 years of devotion and love, raising two beautiful daughters: The Honorable Audrey J. Jenkins (ret.) of Alpharetta, GA, and Eleanor R. Jenkins-Alford, M.D. (L. Craig Alford, D.M.D.) of Charleston, SC. His legacy also lives on through his four granddaughters: Lauren Alford of Greenville, SC, Leah Alford of Charleston, SC, Lydia Alford of Clemson, SC, and London Alford of Newport, RI, each of whom brought him immense joy and pride. He is also survived by his nephew, Ernest Jenkins, Ph.D., of Lancaster, SC, as well as numerous cousins and friends who were like family to him.

David’s faith was a cornerstone of his life. He gave his life to Christ at an early age and was a devoted member of Pleasant Ridge Presbyterian Church in Lancaster, SC, where he served as an Ordained Ruling Elder. He cherished reading the Bible and rarely missed Bible School, whether as a teacher or a passionate student.

David was deeply involved in the Lancaster community. He was a proud Life member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., having served as President and Treasurer of his local chapter. He was also a member of Prince Hall F&A Masonic Lodge #162, where he served as Senior Warden and Treasurer. His community service extended to roles such as serving on the Advisory Board for Dementia Outreach for Minorities, the Lancaster County Joint Planning Commission, and as a charter member of the Lancaster Optimist Club. Additionally, he contributed to the Hospitality Tax Advisory Committee of the Lancaster County Department of Social Services. In his later years, David trained as a volunteer for the AARP Tax Preparation Program, helping senior citizens as he had for many years.

David’s life was a testament to his love for his family, his passion for education, and his unwavering dedication to making the world a better place. One of his final wishes was to donate his body to medical science, not only to further the education of doctors, dentists, and researchers but also to encourage others in minority communities to consider this option as a way to advance treatments and cures for conditions that disproportionately affect people of color.

David will be deeply missed, but his legacy of love, service, and dedication will forever live on in the hearts of all who knew him.

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