Peter E Jenkins

Peter Enright Jenkins, former Mayor of Troy, Ohio, died on November 14, 2018 following a lengthy illness.  He was 84 years old.

Peter Jenkins is survived by his wife of 60 years, Ruth Aileen Bodenmiller Jenkins, son David Clayton Jenkins (Matthew Bennett) of Studio City, California, daughter Mary Elizabeth (Robb) Barker of Richardson, Texas and

daughter Julia Diane (Chris) Melle of Dallas, Texas. He was also a loving “Pa” to five grandchildren, Madelyn and Jack Barker, Peter, Michael and Boden Melle.

Peter was born to Mary Elizabeth (Enright) and David Clayton Jenkins on October 20, 1934 at Stouder Memorial Hospital in Troy. He had one older sister, Ellin Elizabeth Jenkins, who preceded him in death.

Peter attended Saint Patrick grade school and graduated from Troy High School in 1956, where he played football and tennis. He then attended John Carroll University in Cleveland where he played tennis and graduated with a Bachelor degree in Social Sciences.

Peter Jenkins served five and a half years in the US Army Reserves during the time of the Cuban Missile Crisis. During this time, he began his career in the Sales Department at Hobart Brothers Company and transitioned to the Director of Human Resources for 31 years where he was proud to employ thousands of people from the area. He became active in Troy City Government when he was elected City Councilman (1978-1982), President of Troy City Council (1983-1992), and Mayor (1992- 2003).  Mayor ‘Pete’ was the city’s leading advocate and ambassador, actively promoting Troy and its citizens, both here at home and abroad. His passionate focus on economic development has contributed to the growth and prosperity for the city he loved and served.

As a result of his dedicated service, Peter received the “Distinguished Service Award” from the Troy Chamber of Commerce in 2004. He also received the “Community Service Award” in 1979, and the “Outstanding Young Man of the Year” honor from the Troy Jaycees in 1962.  In addition, Peter served on numerous community boards including The Lincoln Community Center, People’s Savings Bank, Troy Foundation, Troy Park Board and Troy Planning Commission among others.

Mayor Pete was a lifelong member of St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Troy,  the Elks Lodge, and a former member and President of the Troy Country Club.

Visitation will be from 2 to 4 pm and 6 to 8 pm on Tuesday, November 20 at Baird Funeral Home, Troy. A Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 10:30 am Wednesday, November 21 at St. Patrick’s Catholic Church in Troy.  Burial will follow in Riverside Cemetery with full military honors.

 In lieu of flowers, please consider a contribution to the Troy Foundation at 216 West Franklin Street, Troy, Ohio 45373 or www.thetroyfoundation.org in memory of Peter E. Jenkins.

Condolences may be expressed to the family at www.bairdfuneralhome.com