It is with overly heavy hearts that we announce the passing of Jennifer Leigh Perkins Kenway, 40, of Mauldin, South Carolina. She entered into the presence of her Lord, Jesus Christ, on August 31, 2021, surrounded by her family.
Jennifer is survived by her loving husband of 8 years, Michael Kenway, and their son, William Kenway; her parents, Sherry and Tony Perkins of Mauldin; brother, Jason Perkins (Candace) of Montgomery, AL; and sister, Sarah Perkins of Simpsonville. She is also survived by many loving aunts, uncles, cousins, nieces and nephews, and her paternal grandfather Jerry Perkins.
Jennifer, known as Jenn to her family, was born and raised in Greenville, SC and graduated with honors from Mauldin High School in 1998. She attended Lee University in Cleveland, TN where she received a Bachelor of the Arts degree in Communications with public relations, history, music, and theology minors in 2003.
Anyone that knew Jenn, knew her greatness. She lived a life full of love and commitment to her family, friends, and to any that needed her motherly spirit. Her knowledge was endless, as were her talents for singing, writing, and motivating others. Jenn was a fantastic, active listener, who would show genuine empathy for whatever frustrations or trials were expressed. Jenn was the ultimate hostess, consistently inviting others to share in meals she skillfully prepared with much attention to detail, adding the extra flair and interaction to any holiday. She was poised, even in the face of great strain or stress. Her voice remained calm even in what appeared to be total chaos. She was a true friend, one that would speak hard truths, even when it was hard to receive. Her own sincere pursuit of truth afforded her the right to call out truth for others, or at least beckon them to dig deeper to find the truth. She taught those how to dream, but most of all, she showed how to listen and talk to God. Jenn has left a legacy on so many that will live on.
One of the most apparent and significant truths for Jenn, is that she loved her family infinitely. Jenn was immensely proud of her husband and his continued service as a US Soldier, and her creative, joyous, and imaginative son. She would tell story after story about all the talents and accomplishments of her brother, and sister. She was so proud of her father and of being a daughter of a Marine – but more importantly a strong, kind, and loving man. She fiercely loved her momma and worked hard to emulate and carry on her mother’s traditions. Her social media presence was filled with a mother’s proud and grateful love for her family, as well as her striving for betterment with her Total Transformation Tribe, full of motivation for others.
The one consolation that remains through grief is the anchor which holds our souls, and which held onto her soul, Jesus. There is no doubt she clung to Christ for her everything. She was a devoted disciple and follower of the Lord. She not only spoke of Jesus, she actively served Him. We know that she was welcomed into Heaven’s gates with a resounding, “Well Done Jenn – My faithful servant.”
A private service will be conducted with the immediate family. Flowers and cards may be sent to the family at: 15 Irish Rose Ct., Simpsonville, SC 29681.
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