Donald Nelson Jerkins, age 88, of Maxville, Florida, passed away on Monday, August 10, 2026, at St. Vincent's Medical Center after a lengthy illness. He was born on October 9, 1937, in Waverley, Florida, to Lena M. (Sinclair) and Leo Desoto Jerkins, and had lived in Maxville for most of his life. 
Don graduated from Andrew Jackson High School, Class of 1957, and went on to faithfully serve this nation in the United States Army. Afterwards, he entered employment with the Florida Department of Corrections and rose to the rank of Major, retiring after 30 years of service. During his tenure with the State, he obtained an associate’s degree from the University of North Florida in Criminology. He served as a longtime member of the Board of Directors for the Florida Peace Officers Association. When Don found spare time, he enjoyed being outdoors hunting, fishing, and riding motorcycles. 
He was preceded in death by his parents and his four sisters, Mildred, Wilma, Eloise, and Betty. Survivors include his devoted wife of 65 years, Shirley M. Jerkins of Maxville; daughter, Donna M. Kelly; grandchildren, Jennifer Rogers (Justin), Brandon Astrauskas (Michele), Brad Astrauskas (Linsi); great-grandchildren, Ellette Astrauskas (Lettie), Noelle Astrauskas, Charleigh Venter, and Madelyn Venter. 
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, August 14, 2026, at Long Branch Baptist Church with Reverend Terry Ryan officiating. Interment will follow in Long Branch Church Cemetery. Visitation with the family will be held one hour prior to the service at the church.
Arrangements entrusted to the dedicated care of BLACKBURN-CURRY FUNERAL AND CREMATION, 380 N. Lowder Street, Macclenny, Florida 32063. (904) 259-2806.