Dennis Fay Jennings

Dennis Fay Jennings, age 79, died February 15, 2026 while visiting a friend in Lincoln City, Oregon. Dennis was a resident of Chicago for 55 years.

He was born in Oakland, California on June 26, 1946. His parents were Benjamin Fay Jennings and Retha Edna (McDaniel) Jennings. He was a graduate of Palestine High School in Palestine, Illinois. He received a Bachelor of Science degree from Eastern Illinois University in Charleston, Illinois and a Master of Divinity from Garrett Theological Seminary in Evanston, Illinois.

Dennis began his career in Chicago in 1971, working for the Japanese American Service Committee counseling clients with disabilities. In 1973, he began his career with the Institute of Cultural Affairs, which lasted until his retirement in 2025. During this time, he served as a facilitator, trainer and mentor for personnel and community leaders throughout the country, including a 3-year term in Maharastra, India. He later started his own business and worked to provide guidance to groups in communities throughout the United States as well as in France, Scotland, Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia.

Dennis dedicated his life to service, leadership development, and community building. His work touched the lives of many both in the United States and internationally.

A graveside service will be held on June 26 for family and friends at the Palestine Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Heifer International. Memorials may be made online using the link below.