Brady Russell Jenkins

Brady Russell Jenkins, affectionately known as Russell to his friends and loved ones, left this world peacefully on January 23, 2025, in Columbus, Indiana. He was a beacon of gentle kindness and a man of unwavering faith throughout his 85 years of life. Born on June 28, 1939, in Jackson County, Tennessee, to Victor Hermit and Helen Phillips Jenkins, he grew to embody the virtues of a southern gentleman - respect, graciousness, and love for his family. Russell was blessed with a loving family, having married the love of his life, Wanda Lee Bowman, on October 7, 1961. Their enduring partnership was filled with mutual affection and support, and together they raised two wonderful children, Tony Russell (Julie) Jenkins and Sherry Jenkins Idlewine, both of Columbus. Russell's legacy extends to his cherished grandchildren, Mindy Coppinger, Brittany Jenkins, Derrick Jenkins, Hailey Idlewine, Jessica Kunce, and Jordan Kunce, as well as his adored great-grandchildren, Amberli, Hunter, Mya, Dixie, Grady, Maddie, Jackson, June, and Waylon. He was predeceased by his great-grandchild Warren Idlewine Key. Russell is also survived by his devoted sister, Dean Long of Hermitage, Tennessee, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. He now joins his heavenly family, including his parents and siblings Roy, Kenneth, Gerald, Jack, and Marcus Jenkins, as well as Loucille Kaerchier and Imogene Jenkins, who predeceased him. His professional life was marked by a lengthy and distinguished career at Arvin Industries, where he dedicated 35 years of service before retiring in 2002. Russell's work ethic and contributions were a testament to his reliability and commitment to excellence. Outside of his professional endeavors, Russell found solace and joy in his faith as a member of Lakeview Church of Christ. He had a passion for woodworking, a skill that he wielded with precision and love. You could often find Russell spending his free time outdoors, fishing, tending to his garden, and relishing the beauty of nature. He also enjoyed hunting when he was younger. However, it was the laughter and presence of his grandchildren that truly filled his heart with joy. A funeral service celebrating Russell’s life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, January 27, 2025, at the Jewell – Rittman Family Funeral Home with Dixon Churchill officiating. Friends may visit with the family from 1:00 until 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, and one hour before the service Monday. Those wishing to donate in Russell’s memory may do so to Beloved, a charity that assists with children’s foster care, through the funeral home. Russell Jenkins lived a life that exemplified the power of faith, the beauty of kindness, and the strength found in family bonds. His memory will be cherished and kept alive by the many lives he touched with the warmth of his gentle spirit. The legacy of Russell Jenkins is one of love and faith, and he will be profoundly missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.