Joseph Hubert Jernigan, Jr., 81, of Graceville, FL was called to his heavenly home on December 1, 2021. He was born on May 31, 1940 to Joseph Hubert Jernigan, Sr. and Fannie Burkett Jernigan in Lewiston, NC.
He lived 81 joy-filled years on this earth. He was a man of God, a true family man and someone who brought inspiration and joy to those around them. He graduated from West Bertie High School with the Class of 1958 and from East Carolina University with the Class of 1962.
Joe was a faithful servant of the Lord and was a loving and devoted husband, father, grandfather, and friend to many. Joe enjoyed teaching and guiding young people, sharing his love of the Lord. Joe was classic and timeless and embodied the values of his generation. He was a man with a strong work ethic, but an even more giving spirit. His generosity to others created a legacy that his family will carry on for generations to come. Joe had a unique way of giving of his time to special people in his life and he made a point to create lifelong memories with each of his children and grandchildren. He was known by many names: Joe, Deddy, Daddy J, Joe Joe, Uncle Joe.
Joe was married to Priscilla Everett Jernigan for 48 years. Their marriage is a true example of a Godly marriage. It was very important to them to put God first, to show love and devotion to their children and to each other. Together they have four children: Carla Jernigan Fuller of Virginia Beach, VA, Jennifer Hickey Broder (Guido) of Canton, GA Chris Jernigan (Angie) of Graceville, FL, and Joseph (Joey) H. Jernigan, III (Lori) of Port St. Joe, FL. They also have eight grandchildren: Stewart (Alexa) Hickey, Mary-Roselyn Jernigan, Brennan Fuller, Anna-Lynn Hickey, Lauralyn (Evan) Sammons, Harrison Fuller, Daniel Broder and Jackson Jernigan; two honorary grandchildren: Lindsey Miller Williams and Leenna Miller, and two great grandchildren: Eloise and Isaac Hickey.
Joe is survived by his loving wife, children and grandchildren, sisters Evelyn Parker and Doyle Long, both of Raleigh, NC, sister-in-law Frances Swain of Big Canoe, GA, nieces, nephews, cousins and his very special friend, Billy Miller.
Joe was preceded in death by his parents, sisters Lacelle Parker and Ramona Saunders Bazemore, brother-in-laws J.P. Saunders, James Arthur Parker, Robert Bazemore, Cecil Parker and Joe Long and nephews Jimmy Saunders and Allen Parker.
Joe always felt blessed by his many friends and loved being a part of the Graceville community for 36 years. Joe quickly became a pillar of the Graceville community and served in many capacities. He was a member of the First Baptist Church of Graceville where he served as a deacon, was a member of the choir, church treasurer and was a Sunday School teacher. He was also a member of the Graceville Lions Club and served as President for several years and was a founding member of the Graceville Arts League. Joe also served on the Board of Directors at People’s Bank of Graceville. He was a proud member of the Masonic Lodge Bethlehem, FL No. 276 and the Confederate Sons Association.
He was successful in the lumber business for many years. After managing a local mill, he acquired Arnold Lumber Company in Caryville/Bonifay and founded Jernigan Forest Products in Bonifay, along with many other business ventures.
Joe was a hero to his family, a giant of a man who loved his Lord. He lived to honor, guide, and love his family as his mission call. There is no greater honor or deeper love than that.
A Celebration of His Life will be 2 p.m., Saturday, December 4, 2021, at the First Baptist Church of Graceville with Dr. Naethan Hendrix and Dr. Jerry Windsor officiating. Burial will follow in Marvin Chapel Cemetery with James & Lipford Funeral Home in Graceville directing.
Family will receive friends at the First Baptist Church, 12 p.m. until time of service.
In lieu of flowers, the family would like contributions to First Baptist Church of Graceville P.O. Box 565 Graceville, FL 32440 or The Baptist College of Florida 5400 College Drive Graceville, FL 32440.
