John Gary Jernigan

John Gary Jernigan lived a life defined by faith, integrity, humility, and quiet excellence. He was a devoted husband, loving father and grandfather, respected engineer, faithful Sunday School teacher, loyal friend, and a man whose character left a lasting impression on everyone who knew him. He was admired for his intelligence, fairness, work ethic, and ability to solve problems with humility rather than seeking recognition.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on February 24, 1940, to Gordon and Louise Jernigan of Memphis. (Both deceased). He was also the older brother of William Blair Jernigan (Madison, MS). John and his family lived in Memphis for over 5 generations. He grew up with a love of learning, hard work, and family. He graduated from Whitehaven High School and attended The University of Tennessee at Martin, where he studied to be a Forest Ranger, following his love of the outdoors. However, he soon realized his true professional gifts were in the fields of mechanical and electrical engineering.

His engineering career spanned decades, from that as an early draftsman in high school to a job beginning with American Electric in Memphis. In the 1980’s and 90s’ he worked for Donruss Candy Company, that eventually became LEAF Candies, (now Hershey Chocolate), leading him to the position of Vice President of Engineering. In this role he traveled throughout the world, specifically in the U.S. overseeing projects in all of company’s manufacturing plants. His love of travel was intensified with seeing the art of chocolate and candy making throughout Europe. He loved telling how foreign associates were captivated by his Southern drawl in meetings. All during his corporate professional career, he and his wife Ellen also owned and operated a small, manufacturing plant in Hernando called Metallic Specialties. John retired from LEAF when it was bought by Hershey Chocolate but continued his love of manufacturing through Metallic Specialties until his retirement at the age of 72 in 2011.

While his professional accomplishments were significant, they were never what defined him most. Faith and love of family were his greatest achievements, often saying the role of Sunday School Teacher was one he was most proud of. He faithfully taught Sunday School for more than 50 years, opening God’s Word week after week with wisdom, gentleness, and a rare gift for the History of biblical events. His life reflected the lessons he taught. Those who knew him saw a man whose faith wasn’t merely spoken—it was lived every day.

John was a devoted husband to Ellen Ray Jernigan, his wife whom he shared nearly 60 years of marriage. He also leaves behind daughters Sarah Jernigan of Birmingham, AL, and Rhea Leigh Renn (Tyler) of Atlanta, GA; He also found tremendous joy in his grandson, who is also his namesake, John Asher Swalm (Atlanta), and his Granddog Brother Jernigan, whom he affectionally called “Bubba” since he lives in Alabama. He also leaves behind his younger brother William Blair Jernigan (Madison, MS), nephew William Brian Jernigan(Emily) (Madison, MS) and their daughters, Alice and Rivers, another namesake, nephew John Eric Jernigan (Leigh) and their daughter, Jane Gayden (Madison, MS.)

Outside of work, John cherished time with family and friends at Sardis Lake, where many of their happiest memories were made. He helped his father build the family’s beloved lake house in the mid-60s and spent countless hours there for over 50 years enjoying the water. He loved his Chris Craft ski boat, teaching family and friends to water ski, sail, and fish. Few things brought him more joy than seeing others gain the confidence to stand up on skis for the first time, always encouraging someone to give it a try. An excellent swimmer, John simply loved being in the water and treasured every opportunity to spend time at the lake.

As a young man, John was an avid duck hunter and skilled marksman. He also shared a lifelong involvement in Scouting. His experiences as camp counselor and the adventures at Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico were some of his most treasured memories. He was an enthusiastic Ole Miss football fan, proudly holding season tickets for more than 40 years, and was a life-long member of the Ole Miss Loyalty Foundation and Spirit Club. Anytime the Rebels took ANY field, he cheered them on. Saturdays in The Grove becametreasured family traditions. His love for Ole Miss extended beyond football through his service on the Ole Miss School of Engineering Board from 2003–2007, an honor he was privileged to be selected for, especially since he was not a graduate of the school. Once again, his engineering genius and expertise provided a source of pride, while also inspiring others.

Those closest to John describe him as humble, honest, fair, kind, hardworking, genuine, wise, loving, fun, faithful, and quietly brilliant. A true introvert, he never sought attention, yet he earned immense respect leading by example instead of by words. 

One of the most beautiful reflections of his life came during his final days. As he prepared to peacefully meet the Lord, hundreds of friends and acquaintances reached out with messages describing the profound impact he had made on their lives. Although he did not have a Facebook account, the outpouring of love on his family’s pages revealed what they had always known: His legacy is not measured by titles or accomplishments, but by the countless lives strengthened and inspired through his faith, his kindness, his quiet leadership, and his unwavering love for God and his family.

He finished his race well.

Visitation will be from 11:30 a.m. until a Celebration of Life Memorial Service beginning at 1 p.m. on Saturday, August 8, 2026 at the Hernando Methodist Church located at 1890 Mt. Pleasant Road Hernando, MS 

In lieu of flowers please consider donating to the Hernando Methodist Church building fund.