Richard A. Jennings, Jr.

Richard Allen Jennings Jr. passed away peacefully on August 9, 2025, at Hershey Medical Center. Rick was born on April 25, 1972, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He was a beloved son, husband, father, brother, uncle, grandfather, cousin, friend, and coworker.

Rick was a loving husband of almost 22 years to his wife, Jayna, whom he fell in love with and married in October 2003. He was a loving father and grandfather who absolutely cherished his family. Rick loved spending time with his loved ones and his friends, whether it was gathering for family moments or just enjoying each other’s company. He especially loved fishing and relaxing by the lake.

A proud alumnus of Harrisburg High School, Rick was also a die-hard Pittsburgh Steelers fan; he truly bled black and gold. He worked his entire life in Harrisburg, including with the Harrisburg School District, PPI, and Achieve Academy, a role that let his special gift for connecting with children shine. Most recently, he and his wife became Relief Houseparents at Milton Hershey School, which had a profound impact on all those they had the privilege of serving.

Rick lived a life marked by faith, courage, strength, and perseverance. He was known for his kindness, generosity, and sense of humor. Always willing to help, he often gave to students in need. Rick also coached his children’s football teams and served as a football coach for Central Dauphin East High School, where he inspired many young athletes.

Along with his family, Rick attended Victory Outreach Fellowship Church under the leadership of Pastor Keith Avery. He was active in the men’s group and the security team, always encouraging and uplifting his brothers in the Lord. Rick had a way of lighting up a room with his humor, warmth, and outgoing nature. He had the rare gift of putting a smile on people’s faces, and as everyone knows, he loved his nicknames and handshakes, traditions that will live on through all who knew him.

Rick was preceded in death by his son, Jayon Richard Lee Jennings; his mother, Jacqueline Lee Jennings; and his father, Richard Allen Jennings Sr.

He is survived by his loving wife, Jayna (Bethani) Jennings; his children, John Nieves-Jennings, Elijah Jennings (Taylor), Ryan Jennings, Justice Jennings, Zaire Harmon, Seth Jennings, Joel Nieves Ortiz, Srinitee Vest (niece), and Jerry Thomas (special cousin); and his beautiful granddaughters, Journei and Jenesis.

Rick is also survived by his brothers, Lynn Preston (Jo) and Charles Jennings (Tracey); his sister, Terry Jennings; and a host of cousins, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, brothers-in-law, friends, students, and coworkers. Each of them will forever cherish the memory of a man whose love, laughter, and light touched them deeply.

Rick's Celebration of Life service will be held on Friday, August 22, 2025, with viewing at 10:00 a.m. and the service at 11:00 a.m. at St. Paul Missionary Baptist Church, 1201 N. 17th Street, Harrisburg, PA 17103. Burial to follow the service at William Howard Day Cemetery.

Please keep the family in your thoughts and prayers.