Obituary

Billy Gene Jenkins

August 7, 1939 - November 10, 2022

Mr. Billy Gene Jenkins, age 83, passed away peacefully at his home November 10, 2022 in Bush, Louisiana. Bill was born August 7, 1939 to the late Edith Penton Jenkins (mother) and Vernon Jenkins (father).

He is survived by his wife Danie Jane Sumrall Jenkins; his two daughters: Danie Robin Dutel and Deirdre O’Reilly; 5 grandchildren: Lacey Chavers Pechon, Dakota Chavers, Brennan Freeman, Morgan Freeman, and Shannon Durkin; 6 great-grandchildren; and one sister: Rosalie Copsey.

Bill was preceded in death by a son: Kelly Gene Jenkins; one daughter: Dolly Rebekah Jenkins Freeman; a grandson: Kevin Ryan Freeman; and a sister: Gloria Tippin.

Bill was a construction worker where he had opportunities to work at McDermott International and travel abroad. He was also an avid hunter and the former president of the Money Hill Hunting Club. Bill was fond of Bluegrass music and was one of the producers of the Five Lakes Bluegrass Festival popular in the 1980s. He owned and operated a popular RV park and campground known as Poverty Hill RV Park and Pickin’ Parlor. Nearly every weekend, musicians and friends from all over the country showed up to play Bluegrass music, camp, and enjoy authentic country food in the peaceful setting alongside the Bogue Chitto River, nestled next to five lakes and pastures of Bush, Louisiana.

Bill, although not a man of many words, was admired for his generosity that extended to fellow musicians by his charitable works in helping those less fortunate. He often provided a place to stay and work allowing many folks a new start. Bill’s giving heart resulted in the development of many musicians and friends. His quiet nature fostered many late night conversations testing his profound knowledge. He enjoyed daily reading and could be found working on a crossword puzzle in peaceful reflection. Bill, known for his quiet and tough exterior, was indeed an introvert who possessed a giving heart and will be remembered for his passion for Bluegrass Music, living his life in the beautiful setting he created on Poverty Hill, and with the love of his Life, Jane Jenkins. He will be missed and his legacy will live on in his children and grandchildren.

Visitation will be from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM on November 17, 2022 at Brown-McGehee Funeral Home in Bogalusa, Louisiana.