Influencer Jacinda Jenkins Dies at Age 28, Her Mom Announces in Emotional Video

Influencer Jacinda Jenkins died on Sept. 29. She was 28.

Jenkins’s mother Emily Kocik shared the tragic news in a post to TikTok on Oct. 1, saying in an emotional video, “This is absolutely the worst thing I’ve had to do.”

Kocik declined to give more details about the circumstances of Jenkins’s death, though an obituary shared by Cooper Funeral Home noted that it was “sudden.”

The content creator had hundreds of thousands of followers across multiple accounts on TikTok, where she shared lifestyle and fashion content. Though her primary page appears to have been taken down, an account where she sold scrunchies and other handmade goodies with her 8-year-old daughter still remains on the platform.

According to the Cooper Funeral Home obituary, Jenkins was a single mother of two, and she is survived by her children, mother and father Christopher Jenkins, half-brother Cullen Jenkins, maternal grandparents Samuel and Ruth Beatty, paternal grandparents Larry and Erma Jenkins, aunt Brett Beatty, uncle Mike Jenkins and many cousins.

“Through moments of humor, heartache, and grace, she invited others into her world with unmatched sincerity,” read the obituary. “Her followers didn’t just admire her — they felt her. Jacinda’s openness about life’s highs and lows made her a beacon for many who sought encouragement and connection. She was more than a content creator; she was a voice for those who often go unheard, a cheerleader for the weary, and a light for those navigating their own complicated journeys.”

Added the obituary: “Her legacy is one of love, authenticity, and unapologetic strength. She will be deeply missed and forever remembered.”

“She was unequivocally herself and that’s one of the things that made her absolutely wonderful,” her mom said in the video announcing her daughter’s death. “No parent should have to go through this ever, and I hope no parent ever does again.”

On the funeral home’s digital guest book, friends, family and fans posted tributes to the late creator.

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“You inspired so many of us to be who we were meant to be in our small businesses and your passing has really affected me this past week,” wrote one. “I hope to keep your memory alive by reposting anything and everything I see with you.”

Shared another: “I looked up to J so so much, and she will be extremely missed. Fly high babe, grateful for the friendship we had through social media. Love you Jacinda 🤍”

“I’m so sorry. Many prayers and hugs to everyone in her family. I enjoyed seeing her videos and I will miss them,” a third posted.