Karen France Jenkins

Karen Jenkins ObituaryObituary published on Legacy.com by Bennie Smith Funeral Homes - Salisbury on Feb. 26, 2026.Karen Frances Jenkins, 64, of Salisbury, Maryland, peacefully departed this life on Monday, February 23, 2026 at her home in Dundalk, MD. Born on December 13, 1961, in Salisbury, MD, she was the daughter of George Jenkins and Ida Leatherbury-Jenkins.Karen grew up in Salisbury, MD (Delaware Ave), where she attended and graduated from Wicomico Senior High in 1978, and she obtained her CNA license at Wor-Wic Community College.Karen's big personality and joyful sense of humor could light up any room, and her loving, kind heart was evident in how she cared for others, often putting their needs before her own. She found happiness in traveling, music, cherished moments with family.She had a deep love for life and found happiness in meaningful connections with others. Her spirit was enriched by a profound understanding of African American history, biblical teachings, and her family's legacy-knowledge she carried with pride and shared with those around her.Over the years, Karen held several positions, including at Grumman's and Soft Touch Car Wash as a Cashier, she also worked at PGH as a Certified Nursing Assistant and private care, and at Salisbury University, where she had to end her employment due to her illness. During her time at Soft Touch Car Wash, Karen made a lasting, life-changing impact on everyone she encountered through her smile, laughter, stylish dress, and conversation -she truly never met a stranger.She leaves to cherish her memories: her father, George Jenkins; son, Earl Richardson; daughters, Kurstin Stanley and Ayonna Doane; and son, Duran Doane; and four grandchildren, Braya Carter, Diyantra Richardson, Duran Doane Jr., and Delaney Doane. Siblings Jerry Tomlin of Baltimore and Yvonne Savage of Arizona.She was preceded in death by her late husband, Samuel W Doane; her mother, Ida Leatherbury-Jenkins; her sisters, Yvette Jenkins and Alane Primus; her brother, Michael Tomlin, who passed on the same day.In lieu of flowers, donations and cards may be made to Bennie Smith's Funeral Home.Karen will be deeply missed, leaving behind a lifetime of cherished memories.To plant trees in memory, please visit the Sympathy Store.