David W. Jernigan, age 77, entered Heaven, on Sunday, February 18, 2024.

David was born on August 2, 2024, to the late Richard and Dorothy Jernigan, where he grew up in East Pensacola Heights. After graduating from Pensacola High School, he joined the US Coast Guard, proudly serving his country for four years, including a year in Vietnam. After his service he then attended the University of Southern Mississippi, earning his B.S. and M.S. degrees, and this is where he met the love of his life, Patti. They married on May 27, 1972.

His first career job was with Dresser Industries-Magcobar and SWACO Divisions, an oil mud co. in Houma, LA where both daughters, Amanda and Ginger, were born. In 1992, he started with The Williams Corp. (formerly Transco Energy), a natural gas pipeline co., as Environmental Engineer for the Atlanta Division. After retiring, he and Patti taught English as a second language and the National Quemoy University in Taiwan. After seven years, they returned stateside, settling in Pensacola.

David enjoyed sailing as it took him out on the water, which he loved, especially when the girls were with him. He shared that love and skill with them. They learned countless practical and useful skills, like renovating a room, and enclosing a carport! His family was his "hobby"! Time at home with Patti, Amanda, and Ginger were precious to him. A highlight for him was his regular time spent with each daughter, listening, encouraging, humoring them. David dedicated every Saturday to breakfast and prayer with his fellow Gideons. He was always excited to participate in a distribution/placement of God's word. As a member of McIlwain PCA, David had great satisfaction in working alongside the church "gardener," helping her to "spruce up" the campus!

David is preceded in death by his parents.

Those left to cherish his memory include, his wife, Patti Jernigan; daughters, Amanda M.K. Harper and William Harper (son-in-law), and Ginger M. Dillman and Adam Dillman (son-in-law); grandkids, Benjamin David Kaimana Harper and Hallie Kailani Harper; sisters, Jean Wiedenbeck and Sheryl Bragwell; and several nieces and one nephew.

David's family would like to express their heartfelt appreciation to Emerald Coast Hospice for their excellent and loving care. And a special, "Mahalo Nui Loa" to Jan, David's "Buddy," for her sacrificial dedication, love, and support.

In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to T rinity Center for World Mission, P.O. Box 580, Dahlonega, GA 30533, or T he VFW at www.heroes.vw.org (actively and caringly serving veterans), or Emerald Coast Hospice-Milton, 5536 Stewart St., Milton, FL 32570.