Albertha Jenkins

Albertha Jenkins, lovingly known as Nana, passed away peacefully of natural causes at the age of 96. Born on September 29, 1929, in Georgetown, South Carolina, Albertha was the cherished daughter of Peter James and Mary Sherald. She was preceded in death by her parents, as well as her beloved siblings, William James Sherald, Peter Sherald, and Lillian Lumpkin. Albertha's life was a testament to love, dedication, and community service. She was married to Curtis Jenkins Sr. for over 20 wonderful years, during which they nurtured a family filled with love and laughter, raising six beautifully talented children. Albertha is survived by her children: Kenneth, Ronald (Ottamease), Curtis Jr. (Kathy), Anthony (Renee), Carl, and her daughter, Traci. Her legacy continues through her 11 grandchildren—Kim, Bryain, LaTonya, Jonathan, Terrence, Shauna, Andrea, Samantha, Danielle, Dana, and Dominique—18 great-grandchildren, and 4 great-great-grandchildren, along with a host of nieces, nephews, and other relatives who cherished her deeply. Albertha's professional journey was marked by a profound commitment to the elderly. She was an advocate for the senior workforce, speaking to Congress on behalf of the National Council on Aging. For 25 years, she served as a Site Director for Mercer County, dedicating her career to supporting residents aged 60 and older with their daily needs, social activities, and nutrition initiatives. A lifelong member of St. Paul AME Zion Church, Albertha was deeply involved in her community. She held roles in the Missionary Board, Lay Counsel, and was a Lifetime Member of the Women's Home & Overseas Missionary Society. Her dedication extended to being a Deaconess, chaperoning the Youth Conference Choir and the Debutante Cotillion, and participating in the Kings & Queens Bowling League and The Golden Girls. Nana's hobbies reflected her vibrant and warm spirit. She delighted in crocheting and sewing, always crafting beautiful gifts for her loved ones. Her competitive nature shone through in bowling, card games, crossword puzzles, and family game nights. She cherished trips to Atlantic City, beach days, and the thrill of casinos. In her later years, Nana found joy in watching NCIS, Law & Order, CSI: Miami, and old westerns, often with a bowl of Turkey Hill Vanilla Bean ice cream by her side. Her love for Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune was well-known, as was her ability to connect with family and friends through the simple joys of life. Nana's culinary talents were legendary; her cabbage, spaghetti, and especially her sweet potato pies were eagerly anticipated at every holiday gathering. She was a woman who spoke her mind, her warmth and honesty leaving a lasting impression on everyone she met. Her legacy of kindness and generosity will be remembered and cherished forever. A service to celebrate Albertha's remarkable life will be held on August 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. at St. Paul AME Zion Church, located at 1130 Lower Ferry Road, Ewing, NJ. The family extends their deepest gratitude to the staff at Virtua Mt. Holly Hospital and Samaritan Hospice for their compassionate care and support. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to organizations that support elderly care or community services, reflecting Nana's lifelong dedication to helping others.