Diana Jean Jenkins of St. James, Missouri passed away Wednesday, January 1, 2025  at the Mercy Hospital in Washington, Missouri. She was 72 years of age.

Diana, the daughter of the late Donald Lee and Ellen Jean (Wallace) Smith, was born August 12, 1952 at the Fort Leonard Wood Hospital in Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. She was united in marriage to James Boswell Jenkins on August 18, 1974 in Jefferson City, Missouri.

Diana is survived by her husband, James Jenkins of St. James, Missouri; son, Matthew Jenkins and wife, Tracy of Rolla, Missouri; daughter, Megan Nieland and husband, David of New Bloomfield, Missouri; two sisters, Brenda Maley and husband, Randy and Sarah Smith of Columbia, Missouri; four grandchildren: Logan, Ty, Audrey, and Sayan; nieces; nephews; and many friends.

Diana is preceded in death by her parents and sister, Linda Mertens.

Diana was a kind, soft spoken lady with a tender heart. She was a loving wife; she and Jim loved to spend time together supporting each other in their creative interests. Diana was a proud mother; she loved sharing and hearing stories about her children and grandchildren. After graduating high school, Diana earned her teaching degree; she taught home economics at the junior high level for many years. Upon completion of her master's degree in library science, she served as the head librarian for the James Memorial Library for several years. Diane was a talented seamstress; she enjoyed piecing quilts, constructing garments, and making craft projects. Diane was a wonderful cook; she loved cooking for her family, especially preparing family favorites for the holidays.

Diane was a member of the St. James United Methodist Church; she enjoyed helping in the different activities of the church.

Visitation will be 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM Thursday, January 9, 2025 at Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.

Funeral services will be 2:00 PM Thursday, January 9, 2025 at Jones Funeral Home with Pastor Alecia Fischer officiating. Pallbearers will be Logan Jenkins, Dave Nieland, Dennis White, Ty Jenkins, and Rick White. Burial will be in the St. James Cemetery.

Memorials may be made to the St. James United Methodist Church in St. James, Missouri.

Online condolences may be entered at jonesfunerals.com.

Arrangements are under the direction of Jones Funeral Home in St. James, Missouri.