More detail on this person: Col. Joe Barney Jenkinson Thu, 08/01/2024 - 06:09 Posted in: Obituaries Col. Joe Barney Jenkinson, a distinguished military leader, devoted husband, and loving father, passed away on July 16, 2024, at the age of 80. Barney was born on March 21, 1944, in Granite, Oklahoma, to Joseph Neal and Reba Ware Jenkinson. He spent his childhood in Mangum, Oklahoma, where he developed a passion for sports, particularly excelling in baseball and basketball. Upon graduating from Centralvue High School in 1962, Barney pursued higher education with a basketball scholarship to P.A.M.C. in Goodwill, Oklahoma. He also showcased his athletic talents on the baseball field during his college years. He also participated in the ROTC program during college. He Graduated in 1966. In 1965, Barney married Carol Yearout, beginning a partnership that spanned nearly three decades and blessed them with two children, Jeff and Jack. Barney's dedication to his country led him to join the United States Army as a Second Lieutenant in 1966. Throughout his illustrious 26-year military career, Joe served as both an Armor and Aviation officer, flying the AH-1 (Cobra) and AH-64 (Apache) helicopters. He proudly served in the Vietnam War and Desert Storm, with the highlight of his career being the Commander of the 1/6 Cavalry Battalion. In 1997, Joe found love again and married Melanie Pattillo Slater, embarking on a new chapter of happiness and companionship. After retiring from the military, Barney transitioned into a successful second career at Lear Siegler, where he served as Vice President of Aviation Logistics until December 2009. Barney's life was enriched by his love for Belton Lake, where he enjoyed fishing, and his passion for golf. Barney's loving nature, integrity, and unwavering dedication to his family and country left an indelible mark on all who knew him. Joe Barney Jenkinson is survived by his devoted wife Melanie; his children Jeff Jenkinson, Jenny Slagle and Jordan Slater; grandchildren Drew, Colton, Cody, Cadence, and Maya Jenkinson; and a host of extended family and friends. He is preceded in death by his beloved son Jack Jenkinson, his brother Thomas, and his parents Joseph and Reba Jenkinson. In lieu of flowers, the family request donations to the Blackhorse Association in memoriam of Joe Barney Jenkinson at Blackhorse.org. Rest in peace, Colonel Joe Barney Jenkinson, your legacy of service, love and dedication will forever inspire us all.
This information was last updated 11/18/2024
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Date posted on this site: 10/13/2025
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