Johnie Norton Jenkins
November 5, 1934 - February 9, 2026
https://www.welchfuneralhomes.com/obituaries/Johnie-Norton-Jenkins?obId=47214950
From: Jones, Don <[email protected]>
This morning Dr. Johnie Jenkins passed from this life. His work at USDA spanning nearly 7 decades built the foundation which benefits us all. I could list a myriad of his research accomplishments, but it would not do justice to his productivity. I was fortunate to be able to say a few words at his retirement celebration back in December and share a few of those comments below:
We drink from wells we did not dig,
We sit in the shade of trees we did not plant,
We warm ourselves by fires we did not light
Dr. Jenkins helped dig those wells, plant those trees, and light those fires for the greater cotton community. Over the years dozens of colleagues have commented about his willingness to listen and exchange ideas. His keen intellect and passion for excellence – practiced with the highest ethical standards - have built the foundation US cotton stands on today. We the community are grateful. In conclusion, I pass along a personal thank you for accomplishing so much over the past 7 decades with an incredibly humble spirit.
Thank you Dr. Jenkins for a stellar career and life.
Funeral arrangements have yet to be finalized. Please forward this sad news to others as you feel the need.
Don C. Jones, Ph.D
Cotton Incorporated
Cary, NC 27513