Robert E. Jenkins Age 88, passed away on February 20, 2016 at the Presence Saint Joseph Medical Center. Survived by his loving son Mark R. (Linda ) Jenkins; grandchildren Justin (Heather) Jenkins and Lindsay (Chris) Varnado; and great-granddaughters Olivia and Addison Jenkins; along with several cousins. Preceded in death by his wife Nancee C. (Kennedy) Jenkins; son John W. Jenkins; parents Tom and Grace (Nelson) Jenkins. Robert was married in Peoria, IL on March 20, 1953. He graduated from Joliet High School, Joliet Junior College, Wesleyan University-B.S. and Indiana University-M.S. He served In the U.S. Navy on the U.S.S. Fieberling. Robert loved basketball playing, coaching and refereeing over 3 decades. He played at Joliet Junior College where the team took 4th in nation and he was elected to the J.J.C. Hall of Fame. He also played at Illinois Wesleyan University and on different occasions against the Harlem Globetrotters; coached at Joliet Central in the 1960's with Ed Woods; refereed C.Y.O. and other youth basketball games. His primary career was as a high school teacher in Joliet. One of his major achievements was starting the Driver's Education program in the school district. In addition, he enjoyed success in the real estate and financial planning fields. Robert also served on the Board of Directors at Trinity School and was a member of St. Mary's Immaculate Church in Plainfield, IL. In lieu of flowers, donations to the Alzheimer's Association- Greater Illinois Chapter would be greatly appreciated. Visitation will be on Wednesday, February 24, 2016 from 4:00-8:00 P.M. at Woodlawn Funeral Home 3201 W. Jefferson Street Joliet, IL 60431. A Chapel Service will be held on Thursday, February 25, 2016 at Woodlawn Funeral Home beginning at 10:00 A.M. Interment will follow at the Woodlawn Cemetery at 10:45 A.M.