Roland H. Jenkins Jr.

Carolyn Maxwell: I can’t remember exactly when I first met Roland, but once I did meet him I never forgot him. We were separated in school by a couple of years and I came to know him more as an adult. It was very obvious from the beginning that he was destined to be an educator. His disposition was always the same. If a forecast for weather predicted a bright, warm sun shining day this would describe Roland’s personality.

At the last Perth Amboy Board of Ed Meeting, some Board Members spoke warmly about Mr. Jenkins. Below are sampling of some remarks: Tony Massopust: I’ve known Roland since he was a freshman in high school. When we put on a St. Patrick’s Day Science Department Assembly, Roland Jenkins dressed as a leprechaun and sang, “It’s Not Easy Being Green.” Three weeks ago I spoke to him and he remembered that song and how much fun it was. I was always in the Faculty Follies with him. He was very versatile and could dance and sing. As a Board Member I saw him as an Elementary school principal and I would ask him about various programs in the Elementary School. Roland Jenkins will be missed in many aspects of the Perth Amboy Educational System as he was a multitalented individual. I will miss him as an educator, student and a friend. Kenneth Puccio: “He was a Perth Amboy success story.” Puccio recalled, “When my mother passed away earlier this year, Roland was the first one to call me. He will be missed.”

It was mentioned how much Roland enjoyed being in plays either as a student or a faculty member. I imagine when he ascended to heaven, God already had Roland’s assignment. He told Roland, “I know how much you enjoyed participating in plays and how much you encouraged and embraced everyone you met as they embraced you. Were there any particular roles that you wanted to be cast in a play?And up here, Roland, it doesn’t matter if the role is originated by a male or female, no matter how old or young. You can be the lead in The Music Man, Peter Pan or in Cabaret. Roland replied, “Well you know there is one role I always wanted to play.”

God would reply, “I know, Roland, that role is to play me – George Burns did it in Oh, God!” I love that the movie showed that I have a sense of humor and so do you, Roland.

Perhaps you want to produce, direct or even write the greatest play of all times. That is all possible up here. After all, this is heaven. I realize that you will be needed on Earth. Your family, friends, colleagues and students and all those lives you have touched will need you to comfort them. In their darkest moments, while they sleep, you will appear in their dreams with a sweet memory. You will appear in a role that is unexpected, but will put a big smile in their face.

Roland will ask God, “What kind of role can I play that would do the trick?” God replies, “I know you love to sing and dance and I think you performing the Moonwalk would do the trick.” Here’s hoping that Roland will soon appear in the dreams of those who are grieving with a happy memory. To Anita, he still will be guiding you as you direct your students.