Duane Lendal Jenkins, age 86, was born in 1939 in Windyville, MO, and passed away peacefully Saturday, February 7, 2026 at his home in Excelsior Springs, Missouri. On October 1, 1960 he married the love of his life, Barbara Jean Watson.
Duane is survived by his loving children, daughter, Theresa Happy (Brent) and son, Lendal Jenkins (Kathy); his cherished grandchildren, Eric Baldwin (Kim), Matt Happy (April), Nick Happy (Audra), Jerod Jenkins (BinBin), and Karly Smith (Logan); his sister, Joann Still; and his brother, Darrell Jenkins; step-granddaughters, Christina (Zach) Cline and Tabatha Wilkins; and five step-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his beloved wife, Barbara Jenkins; his father, Elvin Jenkins; his mother, Ruby Jenkins; and his brothers, Billy Jenkins, Dale Jenkins, and Bobby Jenkins.
Duane retired from Ford Motor Company after 28 years of dedicated service. Family was the center of his life, and he especially loved spending time with his grandchildren, proudly supporting them in their many activities over the years. He had a deep passion for hunting and owned many champion dogs throughout his life.
Duane owned 14 acres with a small home, where he spent many meaningful hours making memories with his grandchildren and hunting. He was a friend to many and truly never met a stranger. After retirement, he stayed busy helping friends with odd jobs whenever he could, always willing to lend a hand.
Duane will be sincerely missed by all who knew and loved him. A graveside service will be held 11:00 a.m. Thursday, February 12, 2026 in Buffalo, Missouri, at Scrivener Cemetery. In lieu of flowers the family suggest donations to the Excelsior Springs Animal Control Center.
Arrangements are in care of Bross & Spidle Funeral Home, Excelsior Springs.
Our Sincere Condolences
I will miss my old friend. We spent many nights following coon dogs. Duane truly knew the definition of friendship, and he lived it daily. As Duane would say ” the hills keep getting steeper, the older we get” wish we could run them one last time. Rest Easy Duane.
Stephen Winn
Theresa, Lendal, and family –
I was surprised and saddened to learn of Duane’s passing. He was a faithful Tuesday customer of mine at Meet The Need, and loved buying paperback westerns by the stack. He was so cheerful and kind, and spoke fondly of his family. Although I’m sure you will miss him, thanks be to God for his long and fruitful life.
Cindy Roth
Theresa and Lendal and families… So sorry for your loss. Duane was one of our favorite neighbors. Always waved as we drove by and had a big smile on his face always. He will be missed by all! Thoughts and prayers for all of you!
The Brewer’s
