Barbara Jenkinson

Plymouth - Barbara Magill Jenkinson, formerly of Portsmouth New Hampshire and Princeton New Jersey, died peacefully on Monday, April 8, 2024, at Forestview Manor in Meredith at the age of 89.

Barbara was born on March 18, 1935, in Point Pleasant, NJ, daughter of the late Orlo and Frances (Magill) Jenkinson. She was raised along the Jersey shore, and earned a Bachelor Degree from Connecticut College.
Throughout her adult life, Barbara's adventurous spirit led her to embrace the majestic mountains of the West and the serene beauty of New England, where she found solace and inspiration. She took two solo driving trips across the country when she was in her 60s, including one year spent in Helena, MT where she served as a Vista Volunteer. As she drove, she would sometimes turn off the car radio and remind herself to be present and aware of all there was to see and to experience. An important part of her travel was to visit with her children and their families, and with other family and friends along her route. Whenever she stayed with anyone, she found something to do to help them, such as painting a room or cleaning up tumbleweed in the yard. She later said that she knew it was time to move on when the project was done, her intention being to spend time with people she loved, to be in contribution while there, and not to impose. After renting a room at the YWCA in Helena for the year she spent there, she chose a simple lifestyle and lived in a room at the Women’s City Club, in Portsmouth for more than ten years, where she also served the nonprofit organization as Treasurer and House Manager for residents as well as social and business functions held there.

Barbara was not only devoted to her family, but also a dedicated citizen, deeply committed to making her community a better place. With a heart full of compassion and a spirit of generosity, she was an active member of Unitarian Universalist fellowships in Portsmouth and Plymouth, and she selflessly volunteered her time and energy to various civic causes, leaving an indelible mark on the lives of those she touched.

Barbara is survived by her daughters, Julie Sackett of Plymouth, NH and Sylvia Bierman and her husband, Dave of Superior, CO, her grandchildren, Ben Farina and wife Shaina of Campton, NH, Tim Farina and wife Becky of Boston, MA, Norman Sackett of Plymouth, NH, Hunter Clark of Belgrade, MT, Kyle and Abby Greenspan of Portland, OR, and great grandchildren Haley and Sonny, who was born two weeks after her passing. She is also survived by many extended family members from her “Blueberry Weekend” family. In addition to her parents she was predeceased by her son, David Greenspan; her brother, Orlo Jenkinson; and her sister, Peggy Johnson.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests a donation to NH Public Radio.

Arrangements are under the care of Mayhew Funeral Homes and Crematorium. To sign the online book of memories, go to mayhewfuneralhomes.com.