James Jenkins Obituary

James Allen “Jim” Jenkins died peacefully on September 3, 2025, at his home in Havelock, North Carolina, with his wife Michelle at his bedside.

There will be a gathering of family and friends from 4 p.m. until 6 p.m., Monday, September 8th at Munden Funeral Home, 908 Lake Road in Havelock.

Born on April 6, 1953, in La Plata, Maryland, Jim lived and worked for much of his life in Virginia, where he and Michelle met while working together in Manassas, VA.

Ever the Southern gentleman, Mister Jim loved talking to people and meeting strangers. Frankly, he could charm the spots off a leopard. Speaking of animals, he adored his many pets over the years.

Although he didn’t suffer fools lightly, Jim would go far out of his way to give you the shirt off his back if you needed it. And he would refuse anything in return.

In the finest American cowboy tradition, as befit his beloved Bonanza and Rifleman television programs, Jim “rode well, shot straight, and always spoke the truth.”

Jim had simple tastes: he loved a cold beer, Mountain Dew, fried oysters, and a nice filet steak—preferably, while enjoying a day powerboating or woodworking.

The world is a little more diminished without Jim, but all whom he touched are the better for having known him.

Jim was devoted to his family and friends. He is survived by his wife Michelle Saczynski, his son JJ, his granddaughters Madison and Sydni, and his brothers John, Joey and Jack.

He was preceded in death by his parents Joseph and Mary (born Scruggs) Jenkins and his sister, Joann.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Craven County Hospice, whose staff provided such tender and compassionate care during Jim’s final days.

Family and friends are welcome to submit online condolences at www.mundenfuneralhome.net.

Arrangements by Munden Funeral Home & Cremations in Havelock, NC.