Barrett "Barry" E. Jenkins

On August 28, 2026, Barrett “Barry” Eugene Jenkins, 85, passed away on what would have been his 61st wedding anniversary, after a beautiful life that succumbed to complications from Parkinsons Disease. He was in his home, surrounded by his wife, daughters, and sons-in-law.

Barry was born November 6,1940, in Brewer, Maine, and grew up in South Portland. He graduated from South Portland High School in 1959 with high academic accolades and athletic honors. He went on to attend Bowdoin College, earning a bachelor’s degree in economics and later received a Master of Education from the University of Maine. During his academic years, Barry was an outstanding football player at both South Portland High School and Bowdoin College, where he was recognized as an elite member of both teams.

In 1965, Barry married Susan Emery. Together, they began a lifelong journey filled with love, family and adventure. They settled in Auburn, Maine, where Barry started his 30- year teaching career at Edward Little High School. He also coached football and for many years, taught Driver education. Barry was a member of the Auburn Army Reserves.

Barry and Sue moved to New Gloucester, Maine in 1976 where they raised their daughters and became active members of the community and the First Congregational Church of New Gloucester. Here they created many lasting memories and traditions that have carried through the years.

In 1998, Barry and Sue moved to Scarborough where Barry became a familiar presence on the Eastern Trail, walking it several times a day. In 2013 they moved to Naples, Florida, where he once again became known for his daily walks and in 2024, due to health reasons, Barry and Sue returned to Maine to be closer to their family. In all the places he called home, he, along with Sue, made wonderful lasting friendships.

Barry enjoyed boating, cruising, summers at Little Sebago, golfing, riding his bike, and of course his walks. He had a great interest in the Civil War and visited Gettysburg several times. Stepping it up a notch, he fulfilled some lifelong passions by taking flying lessons and experienced a ride in a hot-air balloon and went parasailing. Most of all, Barry found his happiest moments when simply being together with his family.

Those who knew Barry often spoke of his quiet and gentle nature. He was kind without seeking recognition, thoughtful in his words, and steady in his presence. Quoting a former childhood neighbor, “Barry wasn’t only smart and a great athlete, he was kind to everybody.” Another friend said, “Barry would talk with you, not at you. He was a true gentleman.” His legacy lives not only in what he accomplished, but through the love he gave, the lives he touched and the example he set by living with kindness, humility and gratitude.

Along with his wife Susan, Barry is survived by his daughters, Betsy Jenkins Lurvey, her husband Paul, and their children Brandon, Nate, and Zac; and Wendy Jenkins Phillips, her husband Richard, and their children, Rachel Moreau and Sarah Agarwal. Barry is also survived by his nieces and nephews, Debbie Flaherty, John Amoroso, Beckie Coulthard, Karen Raven, and Timothy Amoroso, as well as many very close friends.

Barry was predeceased by his father, Harry Eugene Jenkins; his mother, Effie Mae Cox; his sister Donna Jenkins; his parents-in-law, John and Muriel Emery; and his son-in-law, Michael Ivar Pearson.

A private gathering will be held at a later date.

Quoting Barry’s favorite words later in life, “I’m out of talk.”

To view Barrett’s memorial page or leave an online condolence, please visit www.cotefuneralhome.com