Cody William Jenkins

Cody William Jenkins was born on July 28, 1944 in Vernal, Utah to Archie Dee and Clara Murray Jenkins. Cody passed away on Sunday, October 6, 2024 in Vernal, Utah after a long battle with Parkinson's. He was the fourth child, and according to his siblings, he was very spoiled. He has two sisters, Estella Richens and Elaine Coreless, and one brother Karl Dee Jenkins and foster brother Glenn Kurtz. He was raised on the centennial family farm in Maeser which is still farmed by his daughter and son-in-law, Donald and Delene Jaques. 

Almost from the day Cody was born, he has been involved in farming and ranching. When he was only three years old, his babysitter was often a pinto horse that kept track of him while his father and mother worked nearby. Cody developed a deep love and appreciation for agriculture and the miracle of life. Whether it was growing a field of corn, a crop of hay, new calves, or a new foal, there was always a sense of pride and love for the gift of life in agriculture. He started his own herd of cattle when he was twenty years old and purchased his first piece of property just after he was married. While ranching, Cody was always willing to stop and lend a hand to any one in need or stop for a chat. 

During his childhood years, Cody was active in both 4-H and FFA. His parents taught him strong work ethics and passed on generations of knowledge of animals and ranching. His parents also had a strong belief in education, and made sure all of their four children and many grandchildren received college degrees. College was no easy task for Cody, and he worked summers and holidays at the Gilsonite mine in Bonanza to pay his tuition. He successfully completed his degree in Elementary Education from Utah State University in 1968. He started teaching at Naples Elementary in 1968 which was a career he continued for 29 years. This allowed him to return to Vernal and assist on the family ranch. He also taught at Ashley and Discovery Elementary. During this time, he also served in the Utah National Guard in1966 through 1972.

He married Gail Smith of Vernal on April 6, 1968, and they were sealed in the LDS Provo Temple on July 10, 1975. They made their home on the ranch in Maeser. They have three children: Delene (Donald Jaques), Kevin (Brandy), and Rhett (Julie). Their legacy now extends to nine grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. 

Throughout his life, Cody served others in many capacities. He has served as the director for the Uintah Cattlemen’s Association, president of Ashley Valley Reservoir Board, served on the Central Canal Board, and FSA County Committee. He was also honored as “Legendary Cowboy” in 2007 at the Dinosaur Roundup Rodeo. He was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and served in many positions including executive secretary for three different Bishoprics, taught Sunday School and primary for many years, but his favorite was serving in the nursery.

Cody was preceded in death by his parents, brother, Karl Dee Jenkins, and sister, Estella Richens. 

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 15th, 2024 at 11a.m. at the Maeser Stake Center with viewings held Monday, October 14, 2024 at the Blackburn Mortuary from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm and Tuesday from 9:30 to 10:45 prior to service at the stake center. Burial will be in the Maeser Fairview Cemetery under the care of Blackburn Vernal Mortuary.

Cody taught upper elementary for 30 years with Uintah School District. He loved teaching and especially building strong relationships with his students. His favorite subjects that he loved teaching his students were science, social studies, and agriculture safety. During these years, he continued to help his father on the ranch and also acquired his own land and cattle. He started his own herd of cattle when he was twenty years old and purchased his first piece of property just after he was married. While rianching, Cody was always willing to stop and lend a hand to any one in need or stop for a chat. One of his greatest keys to the success of his ranch was the close relationship with his father, wife, driving to any of his properties to work, family, God, and of course so many close friendships with many of you in this room. Along with teaching your children and grandchildren, Cody wants you to remember that relationships are critical for a successful life. 

When asked why did you choose farming as a career? Cody responded, “Not everybody can be a farmer or rancher. You have to almost be raised in it because there are so many details and knowledge to be successful. There are long days and short nights plus you have to work in all types of weather. From the bitter cold of winter to the blistering days of summer, this builds resilience because there is always work to be done. I’m happy and content and find enjoyment building this life. It’s not just a business, but it is a lifestyle. It’s not just about raising crops or cattle, but raising a family. First, it was for my own kids, now it is for my grandchildren and great grandchildren as well. There simply isn’t a better place to teach responsibility, build work ethics, develop self confidence, and share important principles of life.”

Cody loved riding good horses, team penning, braiding ropes, and packing into the High Uintahs. Cody was recognized as the “Legendary Cowboy” in 2007 at the Dinosaurland Roundup Rodeo. He has served as the director for the Uintah Cattlemen’s Association, served on the Central Canal Board, Ashley Valley Reservoir Board, and FSA County Committee. 

Farmers have nine lives, but Cody has had over double that number of close calls in his life. He warns to be cautious and use common sense while ranching. Always keep safety in the back of your mind, remember to use that mask in the grainary and when cleaning out the baler to avoid “farm lung”. Be safe around pesticides and livestock. Remember that it’s ok if that cow gets past you, you can always circle around again. Finally, he would like to express his love and sincere appreciation to Donald and his family for keeping the ranch running. He especially likes to thank his wife who takes care of me day and night with the Lord’s help. “It’s hard to get into this life, and it’s even harder to get to the end of this life.” Remember relationships are always the most important in this life. Our family sincerely appreciates each and everyone of you and your dedication to agriculture.