Barbara Bush Jenkins

Barbara Jenkins, a 40+ year resident of Fremont, CA, passed away suddenly on October 15, 2024 at the age of 78.  Barbara was born in Oakland, CA to Edward and Sara Bush.

Barbara graduated in 1964 from Tennyson High School in Hayward, CA. Immediately after graduation, she moved to Washington DC to begin her professional career as an executive assistant. While living on the East Coast, she met her future husband, Wilbur E. Jenkins, and Silver Spring, MD became her new home.  After her marriage of 11 years ended, she returned to her native CA, where she worked for 30 years as a Human Resource Manager for several technology companies before her retirement.

Barbara was a strong advocate for women, equal rights, education, and personal and professional development. Her involvement in the American Business Women’s Association (ABWA) became an important part of her life. Barbara encouraged independence and sharing of opinions and perspectives.  She was also active in the Fremont Chamber of Commerce, One Child, and other local organizations.

Barbara was an avid golfer, enjoying golfing with her women’s clubs, and golf vacations with friends.  She loved the SF 49ers, SF Giants, and Golden State Warriors, supported other Bay Area professional and college sports teams, and would not hesitate to vocalize her excitement (or frustration) with plays and final results.

Barbara will be remembered by her family and friends for her warmth and compassion, her tenacity, the guidance she offered to others, and her overall love of life.  She will be remembered lovingly by everyone whose life she touched.

Barbara is survived by her loving sisters, Donna and Laura Bush, Robin (Steve) Sawamura and her two nephews, Scott and Brian Sawamura.  She is predeceased by parents Edward and Sara Bush, and brothers Keith and David Bush.

A celebration of life will be held on November 22, 2024 at Spin A Yarn Steakhouse, 45915 Warm Springs Blvd., Fremont, CA 94539. In memory of Barbara, contributions can be made to the Stephen Bufton Memorial Educational Fund at www.sbmef.org. SBMEF grants and scholarships provide females with funds for post-secondary education and ongoing professional development.