John Michael "Mike" Jenkins, 68, of Riverview, Florida, passed away on August 27, 2026. He leaves behind a legacy of hard work, music, craftsmanship, and a legendary love for animals.

Born on August 14, 1958, Mike grew up in Tampa and graduated from Chamberlain High School in 1976. Soon after, he partnered with his father to start Jenkins Dairy Services, working side-by-side to troubleshoot and restore vital dairy equipment. As the local landscape shifted from pastures to housing developments, Mike adapted and founded Mike's Mowing. He was known for his relentless work ethic, routinely putting in long hours in the unpredictable Florida weather.

True love came full circle when Mike reunited with his high school sweetheart, Cynthia Williams Jenkins. Together, they shared 41 beautiful years side-by-side and 39 years of marriage, building a life rooted in love and devotion.

Mike had a vibrant spirit and a wide array of talents. He loved going to the beach, hanging out at East Bay Raceway, playing billiards, fishing, and playing the harmonica. A gifted woodworker, Mike built tangible expressions of his love for his family, including a massive three-tiered deck with a custom tower for his daughters, Adirondack chairs, a piano bench, and a beautifully crafted cradle when he learned he was going to be a grandfather. He also loved hosting large cookouts and making his famous homemade ice cream.

Above all, Mike was a protector of the helpless, famously rescuing any stray animal he crossed paths with. His family will forever cherish the memory of him rescuing a cat from the highway as it was dodging vehicles, appropriately naming the lucky feline "Tumbleweed."

He is survived by his beloved wife, Cynthia Williams Jenkins; his two daughters, Kelly Jenkins and Shannon Jenkins; his three adored grandsons, Jace, Xander, and Kai; and his brother-in-law, Craig Williams. He was reunited in death with his father, John H. Jenkins; his mother, Frances E. Warmack; and his son-in-law, Simon M. Humphrey.

The family extends their deepest, heartfelt gratitude to Kevin Franklin, Dr. Matthew J. Bruha, and Dr. Saqib Khan for their exceptional care and support.

A private graveside ceremony will be held at Serenity Meadows in Riverview, Florida.

In lieu of flowers, and in honor of Mike’s soft spot for animals like Tumbleweed, the family requests that donations be made to Hillsborough County Pet Resources-

https://hcfl.gov/residents/animals-and-pets/pet-advocacy/make-a-donation-or-get-help-for-pets#donate

https://hcprfoundation.org/