HAMPSTEAD — John Alton Jenks, Jr., a devoted husband, father, and grandfather, known as Day, passed away peacefully on March 20, 2026, in Hampstead, NC, at the age of 79. Born on January 2, 1947, in Afton, NY, John led a life marked by dedication to his family, a deep love for animals, and a passion for music, sports, and happiness.
As a boy growing up in Afton in the 1950s, he spent long, unhurried days roaming the streets with his closest friends, Marty Sanders, Jim Parker, and John Nygren. From well after sunrise to supper, their world stretched from the corner store to the wooded edges of town, filled with scraped knees, shared laughter, and the kind of freedom that defined a generation.
John graduated from Afton Central High School in New York before pursuing higher education at North Carolina Wesleyan College in Rocky Mount, NC, where he earned his Bachelor’s Degree in English.
John’s marriage proposal to Janice was a testament to his thoughtful nature, cleverly placing a personal ad in the local newspaper and charmingly persuading her to read it.
For many years, John made a living as an insurance inspector for homes and businesses, but his heart truly belonged to his family. He cherished every moment spent with his loved ones, creating memories that will be treasured forever.
John loved to make people, including himself, laugh and smile as often as possible. For many his presence and jokes lit up the room. All who experienced his humor would bask in the light hearted antics and boastful, albeit exaggerated, stories. He could always be found anywhere his children and grandchildren were. He never missed an event, a reason to celebrate, or a random day just-because. Typically bringing the fun and silliness wherever he went.
As an avid animal lover, John especially adored his dogs, whose companionship brought him great joy throughout his life. His musical talents were diverse; he enjoyed playing the piano, harmonica, and xylophone and had a profound appreciation for the greats of all genres of music. John’s love for sports was evident in his unwavering support for the NY Yankees and the Washington Redskins, as well as his enthusiastic encouragement of his son’s stellar soccer teams and daughter’s allstar cheer squad.
Preceded in death by his parents, John Alton and Sarah Regina Hatfield Jenks, his sister Andrea Gay Graves, and sister in law Elaine Jenks, John is survived by his beloved wife of 30 years, Janice S. Jenks; his children, Richard Menaik (Teresa Doerre), and Casey Villarreal (Joshua); and his cherished grandchildren, Gage, Emmalyn, Quinn, and Morgan. He also leaves behind his brother, Kirk Jenks (Colleen), his nephew Michael Graves (Jodie), his closest friends Marty Sanders, Jayne Meyers, Jim and Sandy Parker, and his faithful dog, Bella. As well as many extended family members and cherished friends.
In keeping with his wishes, private family services are being planned.
John Alton Jenks, Jr. will be remembered for his kindness, his laughter, and his unwavering loyalty to those he loved. His legacy lives on in the hearts of his family and friends, who will miss him dearly.
