The family of Irving (Irwin) Jenkins is deeply saddened to announce the passing of their loved one. Irving entered eternal rest on October 20, 2024.

Irving "Irwin" Jenkins was born on March 28, 1944, in Charleston, South Carolina, to late Francis and Estelle Chisolm Jenkins. There, he began his studies at Buist Elementary School. Irving graduated from Burke High School in 1962. At Burke, he ran track and sang in the chorus and after graduating from high school, Irving enlisted in the United States Air Force (USAF). For the duration of his time in the military, Irvin was stationed at Langley Air Force Base, where he pursued his love of track by participating in the USAF Track Team.

After leaving the Air Force, Irving worked as a shoe sales associate in New York until his father passed in 1988, after which he returned to Charleston and cared for his mother until her death. Irvin was a very friendly and helpful person in life, who frequently assisted Mrs. Scott, his mother's neighbor, with her groceries.

As a child, Irving enjoyed spending time with his siblings in Charleston and on his grandparents' farm on Wadmalaw Island. He also enjoyed watching sports, playing games like Bid Whist and Phase 10, and reading the Bible. An active walker, Irving enjoyed exercising and indulging in conversations with friends and family, especially his brother John, about golf, politics, and other current events. He always welcomed you on the phones with "howdy, howdy," and ended with "see you later." Irving also loved researching family history and genealogy at the Charleston County Library.

Irving was preceded in death by his parents, Francis and Estelle Chisolm Jenkins, brother Frank Jenkins, and sister Pearl Georgiana Jenkins. Irving is survived by his sister, Estelle Artis (Theodore) of Wilson, North Carolina, sister, Delores Garland (James, deceased) of Richmond, Virginia, brothers John Jenkins (Jeanette) of Stockton, California, and Nathaniel Jenkins (Sallie) of Apopka, Florida, and a host of nieces, nephews, and relatives.

Please join us for a Memorial Service to celebrate Irving's life on Saturday, November 16, 2024, at 11:00 a.m., at the Smith-McNeal Funeral Home and Chapel, 2119 Dorchester Road, North Charleston, South Carolina, 29405.

The Service will be LIVE-STREAMED via the Smith-McNeal Funeral Home FACEBOOK PAGE!