Ross Elwood “Woody” Jenkins, Jr.

South Bend-After a long and courageous battle with Myotonic Muscular Dystrophy, Ross E. "Woody" Jenkins, Jr., 65, passed away peacefully into the arms of his Savior on December 7, 2021. He was at home with his wife by his side. The day prior, knowing the end was near, a beautiful living celebration was held for him at home. His family had the joy of talking with him, sharing stories, laughing, crying, praying and singing to him. He is now at peace, out of pain, and his body is restored whole again.       Born July 16, 1956 in Elkhart County, he was the son of the late Ross E. Jenkins, Sr. and Peggy J. Thompson. His brother, John P. Jenkins; and sister, Patricia A. Jenkins also preceded him in death.       On October 14, 1995, Ross married Pam Lichnerowicz, who lovingly cared for him to the end. Also left to cherish his memory are: his son, John Jenkins of Mishawaka; 2 step-daughters, who he loved and considered as his own, Amy (Ron) Singleton of Mishawaka and Jessica (Jason) Lambert of Niles, MI; two grandsons, Logan Jenkins and Austin Johnson, both of Mishawaka; sister, Kathy (Doug) Knoll of Elkhart; brother, Larry (Tina) Kline, Jr. of Mishawaka; aunt, Marge Palen of L'Anse, MI; step-father, Larry Kline, Sr. of Mishawaka; 5 nieces and 7 nephews.     Woody grew up in Granger when there were no cars on the road. As a young boy, he had fond memories of helping his grandpa on his farm. He was a 1975 graduate of Penn High School. A gifted carpenter, he owned and operated his own company, Jenkins Custom Homes. He enjoyed building homes until he was diagnosed with MMD, and his strength slowly declined. He then worked at Benchmark services, formerly AWS, caring for adults with disabilities. He loved working with his clients and many of his clients would still occasionally call to check on him.       Ross was a man of God. When most people lose or question their faith in bad times, Ross went deeper in the Word. He read his Bible faithfully and always encouraged others to have faith in Jesus in every circumstance. His faith and family were the top priorities of his life. When he was unable to walk and couldn't leave the house, he found solace being home playing dominos and cards with his wife, family and friends. He loved having company and always had a smile and fist bump for all who visited. He was dearly loved and will be greatly missed.     A celebration of life will be held on Saturday, July 16th at ZB Falcons, 323 S. Sheridan St., South Bend, with a time for sharing from 1:30 - 2:00 p.m., and visitation following from 2-4 p.m.In lieu of flowers, memorial donations may be made to Heart to Heart Hospice.                 To send private condolences, please visit:  http://www.mcgannhay.com/condolences.html