It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of Coach Steve Jenkins. Coach Jenkins passed away on November 7, 2024, at the age of 72, in Springfield, Missouri. He was born on March 25, 1952, in Pittsfield, Illinois, to George and Marceline Jenkins. He was the third of five brothers: David, Don, Jim, and Bill. Steve Jenkins graduated from Evangel University in 1974 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in psychology and physical education. During his time as a student-athlete at Evangel, he lettered in both baseball and basketball. After earning his degree and playing on Evangel’s teams, he married Rhonda Jennings, also of Pittsfield, in 1974. They began their coaching journey in Lakeland, Florida, before returning to Evangel in 1977. In 1982, he took the reins as head basketball coach—a role he held for 39 years until his retirement in 2021.

He had a career record of 692-542 and was inducted into multiple halls of fame, including the NAIA Hall of Fame in 2014, the Missouri Basketball Coaches Association Hall of Fame in 2013, the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame in 2016, the Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame in 2011, Evangel Athletics Hall of Fame in 2006, and the Millwood Golf and Racquet Club Hall of Fame in 2018, as well as receiving the 2021 Missouri Sports Hall of Fame Pinnacle Award and the 2023 Harry Statham Coach of Impact Award.

Jenkins’ legacy extends beyond wins and titles. His players not only learned the game but also life’s values of integrity, discipline, and compassion. “Coach J,” as he was affectionately known, built a coaching tree of former players and assistants who carry his legacy across the country, including Bert Capel, his successor at Evangel. Last spring, Evangel University honored him by naming the floor inside the new AG Financial Arena “Steve Jenkins Court.”

Beyond the basketball court, Jenkins was a mentor and servant in his community. At Central Assembly of God, he taught a kindergarten Sunday school class, enjoyed being a member of the choir, and served on the church board.

Coach Jenkins is survived by his beloved wife, Rhonda; his children: Sarah Stafford (Neal), Jon (Amber), and David (Brooke); his eight grandchildren: Davis, Grant, Natalie, Chloe, Emerson, Renee, Jozie, and Mack; his brothers; and several nieces and nephews. Coach Jenkins was more than a coach; he was a devoted husband, father, and friend. Steve Jenkins will be remembered as a man of faith, integrity, and kindness.

Visitation will take place at Central Assembly of God from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. on Tuesday, November 12, 2024, with a funeral service scheduled for Wednesday, November 13, 2024, at 10:00 a.m., at Central Assembly of God. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made payable to the Coach Steve Jenkins Foundation and mailed to: Community Foundation of the Ozarks, PO Box 8960, Springfield, MO 65801. Donations can be made online at https://cfozarks.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=15225.

Services have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North.