Valerie “Pickle” Jenkins, 81, beloved matriarch to her children, Mitchell (partner Lillie) and Julie; and cherished grandmother to Chris (husband Louie), Holly (partner John), and Emily, passed away on July 7, 2026, in Bradenton, Florida.
The loving wife of the late Robert “Bubba” Jenkins, Valerie is also survived by her sister, Zenna Lake, and many nieces and nephews.
Born in Sandusky, Ohio, Valerie was raised in Cynthiana, Kentucky. She also spent many cherished years in Bradenton, Florida, where her parents owned and operated a beloved old-fashioned neighborhood grocery store.
Mrs. “Pickle” Jenkins lived a life devoted to unconditional love, support, inspiration, and education, both within her family and throughout her decades-long career as an English, Speech, and Drama teacher.
A self-described dreamer, she will be deeply missed and fondly remembered for her remarkable gift of making everyone in her care and company feel seen, heard, and respected. She fostered an environment where people felt encouraged to share their thoughts and express themselves freely and creatively.
A lifelong animal lover, Valerie’s compassion extended to every creature she encountered. From having a pet squirrel as a child to welcoming countless beloved pets into her home throughout her life, animals always held a special place in her heart.
Above all else, Pickle treasured being a grandmother. It was the role she held closest to her heart and one in which she took immense pride. She was a safe haven when life became difficult, and a constant source of unconditional love, wisdom, and encouragement. Her greatest wish for those she loved was simply that they find happiness and joy in life.
A Celebration of Life will be held on Sunday, August 2, 2026, from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m. at Palma Sola Botanical Park, 9800 17th Ave. NW, Bradenton, FL 34209.
In lieu of flowers, the family kindly requests that memorial donations be made to the Tidewell Foundation, whose compassionate hospice team provided exceptional care for Valerie during her final days.
To quote one of Pickle’s favorite stories, L. Frank Baum’s The Wizard of Oz:
“And remember, my sentimental friend, that a heart is not judged by how much you love; but by how much you are loved by others.”
Brown & Sons Funeral Homes & Crematory,43rd Street Chapel, 604 43rd Street West, Bradenton, FL 34209, is in charge of arrangements
