John T. Jenkins

In Loving Memory of John T. Jenkins

“Life is a journey, not a destination.”

     John T. Jenkins, a lifelong adventurer and man of many wheels and wings, passed away peacefully on May 23, 2025, surrounded by the love of his family.

     From his early days in the Boy Scouts where he cultivated a deep love for camping and the outdoors, John was always drawn to the horizon. That passion for hands-on work and practical skills led him to pursue construction training at Williamsport Area Community College.

     It was the skies that truly called John. A devoted aviation enthusiast, he not only worked for US Air for many years but also pursued his own dream of flight—earning his wings and piloting small aircraft simply for the joy of it.

     Travel was not just a hobby—it was part of his identity. Whether jetting off to warmer climates like Florida or exploring by land or sea, John loved all things that moved: planes, trains, and buses. His heart was always in motion, and he found joy in every new route and every new view.

     After retiring from US Air, John wasn’t one to sit still. He channeled his energy into a new chapter behind the wheel, becoming a coach bus driver for Susquehanna Transit and later Fullington Trailways. He also took great pride in transporting veterans to Washington, D.C., honoring their service in the most personal way he knew—by taking them there himself.

     John lived life at full throttle, with his eyes on the horizon and his heart open to the world. He was a passionate supporter of Penn State football and the Philadelphia Eagles, loyally cheering them on every season. His sense of wonder also reached beyond the Earth—John was fascinated by space exploration and closely followed NASA’s missions, captivated by the courage and curiosity that fuels humanity’s journey into the cosmos.

     John is survived by his loving wife, the former Sandra J. Meckley, they were united in marriage on Aug. 5, 1995; a son, Evan J. Jenkins, of Jacksonville, FL; step sons, Justin S. (Lisa) Welsh, of Kansas City, Kansas and Seth M. (Linda) Welsh, of Bedford; 5 grandchildren; a brother, Carl S. (Nelia) Jenkins, of Muncy; and many nieces, nephews, and dear friends who will forever cherish his adventurous spirit.

     He was preceded in death by his parents, John H. Jenkins and the former Evelyn D. Welshans.  

     A visitation will be held from 10 am Saturday, May 31 at Frederick B. Welker Funeral Home, 125 N. Main St., Jersey Shore, followed by a service at 11 am. The Rev. Dr. Kerry Aucker will officiate.

     Following the service, friends and family are invited to a reception at the Jersey Shore Elks Lodge where stories will be shared, and John’s memory will be honored with love and laughter.

     In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that donations be made to the Honor Flight at https://www.honorflight.org/donate/

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