"The purposes of a man's heart are deep waters, but one who has insight draws them out." — Proverbs 20:5

Alan Jerome Jenkins Sr.

Born in The Bronx, New York, to Nelda Cook and Willie C. Jenkins , Alan was the third of five boys and had two younger sisters — Clarence, Gordon, Alan Sr., Gregory, Ronald, Charlene, and Brenda.

Alan grew up in the Bronx during the vibrant 60s, 70s, and 80s — a time of rhythm, creativity, and community. Athletic and adventurous, he was known as an urban daredevil — strong, funny, and full of life. He did gymnastics, breakdanced, and even owned a club called Chocolate City, before the fire… he dabbled with many industries in his time including DJ'ing and break-dancing connected with early hip-hop pioneers. Always sharply dressed and confident, a conversationalist, Alan proudly said he had "the gift of gab."

A man of many talents, he could build or repair just about anything — carpentry, plumbing, painting, roofing, and more — but electrical work was his divine calling. Fascinated with how things worked, Alan began by taking apart electronics as a child, a curiosity that grew into a 40-year career with the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Local 3. He worked on projects across Manhattan — from banks and hotels to colleges, factories, and corporate offices — earning respect for his craftsmanship, creativity, and leadership.

Alan loved New York City with his whole heart — its skyline, bridges, the trains, the parks, the culture, and the people. Every block held a story, and he had one for each.

He was married twice to two beautiful women. His first marriage to Elizabeth blessed him with a daughter, Lashanna , a strong, creative woman who built successful careers in mental health and corrections. Her children — Daishon , a standout athlete and fashion trendsetter, and Shanai , a talented young entrepreneur and artist — carry forward her drive and their grandfather's spark.

His second marriage to Bridget brought two sons, Alan Jr. and Tyler.

Alan Jr., artistic and inventive, built a 20-year career in telecommunications and, with his wife Amanda, is raising two talented children: Derrick, a multi-instrument musician studying Jazz in college and performing with The 5th Mode Collective, and Arianna , a bright and creative middle schooler with a passion for science and art.

Tyler, the youngest, is a martial artist and yogi pursuing studies in programming and crypto modeling and becoming pilot. His daughters Freedom and Monica , the family's youngest grandchildren, both are imaginative and vibrant spirits who both love to dance, sing, and draw.

Alan lived a full and meaningful life — one of learning, laughter, debate and spontaneity and challenges and love. He loved God deeply and taught his children the varieties of life, food, fashion, to be grateful, and to cherish family the best way he knew how, even through their ups and downs . Through both his words and actions, he taught the value of hard work, humility, and joy.

He was not perfect, but he was ours — a father, a friend, a craftsman, and a man whose love for life was unmistakable. The life of the party. His voice, his laughter, and his light will forever echo in the hearts of those who loved him.

If we could, we'd roll down a grassy hill beside him one more time, feel the sun on our faces, and hear him say, "Enjoy the moment — that's what it's all about."