STEPHEN MICHAEL JENKINS

Stephen “Steve” Michael Jenkins, 72, of Springfield passed away on Nov. 7, 2024, in Springfield. He was born on March 25, 1952, in Pittsfield, Ill.; the third of five boys born to George and Marceline Jenkins.
He 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, Fla., 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. “Coach J,” as he was affectionately known, built a coaching tree of former players and assistants who carry his legacy across the country. 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 wife, Rhonda; his children: Sarah (Neal) Stafford, Jon (Amber), and David (Brooke); his eight grandchildren; his brothers; and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services are scheduled at 10 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 13, 2024, at Central Assembly of God. Services have been entrusted to Greenlawn Funeral Home North.