February 18, 2025

Linn County News

Published February 19, 2025

Sylla Clay Jenkins, 56, of Dallas, Texas, passed away Jan. 29, 2025. He was born June 25, 1968, in Kansas City, Kan., the son of George B. and Sylva A. Jenkins. He graduated from Jayhawk Linn High School in 1986. Sylla attended Technical College in Kansas City. Following graduation, he worked CAD and mechanic positions until completing studies at DeVry in telecommunications. Sylla was employed in the telecommunications industry for 15 years. He was based out of Texas the last 13 years, traveling the nation. 

Sylla had strong family values being a present and active son, father, brother and uncle. He was a devout believer and lifelong member of the Community of Christ Church. He had a love for horses since childhood and owned several while growing up on the farm. Sylla enjoyed travels with his wife and family, including multiple Caribbean cruises and visiting Central America. He was an avid reader and studied Native American heritage. Sylla spent time fishing, exploring nature and wildlife. He enjoyed the annual Jenkins family float trips to the Ozark rivers.

Sylla was united in marriage to Mary Baker and made a home in Rosharon, Texas, until her passing in late 2021.

He was preceded in death by his parents and wife, Mary.

Sylla is survived by his son, Tyler Clay; grandsons from late wife Mary, Jordan and Thomas; brother Ron; and several nieces, nephews and cousins.

Funeral service will be 1 p.m. Monday, March 3, 2025, at the Community of Christ Church, 4th and Main, Mapleton, Kan., 66754. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Community of Christ Church Memorial Fund.