Final Salute: Suffolk County mourns death of Chief Frank Jenkins
Known to all as “Chief Jenkins,” Frank Jenkins began his journey in public service as a Boy Scout.
More Stories
Family, friends and fellow first responders gathered at a Nolan Funeral Home in Northport to honor the life and legacy of Chief Frank Peter Jenkins, a lifelong public servant whose dedication to his community spanned more than five decades.
After the funeral service provided by a chaplain from the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police, pallbearers escorted Jenkins’ casket to an antique fire truck, followed by a Suffolk police helicopter flyover and a procession of motorcycles, fire engines and police cars - symbols of the agencies he served with distinction.
Jenkins’ children spoke with deep admiration and love.
“My father was larger than life,” said Amanda Goldman, Jenkins' youngest daughter.
“[He was] always a man of authority dedicated to service and giving to others as well as his family," added his son, Bill Jenkins.
Known to all as “Chief Jenkins,” Frank Jenkins began his journey in public service as a Boy Scout.
He went on to serve 30 years with the Suffolk County Sheriff's Office, rising to the rank of Chief Deputy Sheriff.
He also dedicated 41 years as an auxiliary police officer and over 50 years as a firefighter, dispatcher and EMT, volunteering with both the Wyandanch and Dix Hills Fire departments.
“Frank cared deeply, deeply about people,” said Inspector Rick Bonaparte, of the Suffolk County Auxiliary Police. “He loved being a first responder. But more than that, he loved being a public servant.”
Despite his demanding roles, Jenkins remained devoted to his family.
“Always made a recital. Always made a school play. Always made a graduation. Never missed out on us,” said Amanda.
“He was my best friend. He was my hero,” Bill added.
The funeral procession drove past Jenkins' Dix Hills home, as well as saluting firefighters at the Dix Hills Fire Department. The Jenkins family expressed heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of support from the first responder community.
“Seeing everyone come from all over the island to honor him has really been a huge support for all of us,” Amanda shared. “Family, really. They’ve become a family.”
Chief Frank Jenkins died on Aug. 17, 2025, at the age of 81. His legacy lives on through his four children, each inspired by his selflessness to serve in the military, fire department, and the Civil Air Patrol.
