Longtime independent manufacturers' rep Vera Jenkins passed away on February 21, 2015. She was 95 years old.

Jenkins entered the foodservice industry serving as a dietician in the healthcare foodservice arena and then honorably served her country in the U.S. Army. Jenkins joined a manufacturers' rep firm serving as a dietician before eventually starting her own firm, Jenkins and Associates, in 1968. Often referred to as the First Lady of Foodservice, Jenkins retired in 1985, selling Jenkins and Associate to longtime associates Frank Griffin and Tommy Hale, who created Griffin-Hale Associates.

Jenkins is survived by her son, Arthur C. Jenkins III, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

A private family burial and graveside service conducted by Dr. Doc Wyle, associate pastor of Highland Presbyterian Church, took place at 11 a.m. Monday, Feb. 23, 2015, in Lafayette Memorial Park on Ramsey Street.

Memorials may be made to the Highland Presbyterian Church, UNCG School of Health and Human Services, or charity of one's choice.