In 2023, the local NAACP branch honored him as the “Freedom Fighter of the Century,” hailing him as a champion of civil rights and inclusion. As an NAACP president and leader at the state level, he positively impacted the lives of all Floridians. In March of 2025, a five-intersection portion of Northwest 24th Road in Ocala was renamed Honorary Whitfield Jenkins Road. He is a true champion for the community,” Bethea said, adding that Jenkins is a “champion for civil rights, equality and inclusion.” Barbara Brooks, Loretta Jenkins and Whitfield Jenkins, at the Heritage Trail Park ribbon cutting ceremony in Ocala on Sept. 3, 2024.