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Donald Ray Jernigan August 18, 1942 - August 26, 2020

Donald Ray Jernigan, 78, of Ozark, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, August 26, 2020 in Cox Medical Center South. Don was born August 18, 1942 in Christian County.  He was the son of the late Elvis and Marie (Sowards) Jernigan. On January 15, 1965 he was united in marriage to Janice Wilkerson.

Don became a Christian at an early age.  In 1960, he joined the United States Navy where he proudly served our country for four years. He then worked for Frisco Railroad for the next 20 years before retiring in 1989.

Don was an avid outdoorsman.  He loved fishing, golfing, quail hunting and NASCAR. He loved his family dearly, and his biggest enjoyment was watching his grandkids grow up and attending their activities.  He was a kind-hearted Gentle Giant and loved so much by his family.  Don was a wonderful husband, Dad, Papa and friend.  He will be greatly missed by all.

Don is survived by his wife, Janice; a son Mark Jernigan and wife Teri; a daughter LeAnn Snider and husband Tim; a son Aaron Jernigan and wife Stephanie; seven grandchildren Hana, Morgan, Garrett, Clayton, Maycee, Colson and Collins; a brother Bob Jernigan and wife Saundra; a sister Barbara Blount and husband Jim; a brother JT Jernigan and wife Della; and several nieces, nephews and a host of friends.  He was preceded in death by a sister Donna Blount.

Don’s family would like to express their deepest gratitude to Dr. Baron and his caring team of professionals.

Graveside services with full Military Honors will be held Wednesday, September 2, 2020 at 11:00 at the Missouri Veterans Cemetery, 5201 S Southwood Rd, Springfield, MO.

Due to Don’s love of dogs, in lieu of flowers, donations to the Humane Society of Southwest Missouri are appreciated.

Under the latest Coronavirus Pandemic, Barnes Family Funeral Home is under the guidelines of NFDA and the state governed mandate policy regarding COVID-19. Therefore, our limitations are implemented as no gatherings larger than 20 people and maintaining social distancing of 6 feet. Our obituaries will be updated according to the progress of our mandates and information regarding our families wishes. With these safety measures we are obedient to others and consider safety and laws first. Our staff is working with others to expedite this situation and continue serving our community with care and compassion for their loved ones. During this most difficult time, our blessings and dedication will always come from our hearts and placing our families needs first. Our online condolences and website is always available and suggested as a method of correspondence with the family, www.barnesfamilyfunerals.com

 

Condolences(3)

  1. REPLY
    Trenton Denief says

    Mr. Don, you will forever be my friend. The days we spent together down in the shop talking fishing or sitting under the shade tree will forever weigh heavy on my heart. You encouraged me constantly and always showed me the love of a grandfather. You lit the fire in my sole for bass fishing and held my hand all the way through the learning curve, until we could stand side by side catching fish and enjoying life.
    Growing up every time I would come home late at night or get up early in the morning, I would look over and see the light on in the room were you would sit and watch old westerns. I knew you were watching me, I could never slip anything by you.
    Although you are no longer sitting under the shade tree or in your rocking chair i smile because I know you will still be watching me ever day and every night. I will still look over at your home and think of you and will forever miss your friendship and your company. Thank you for the life you fed into me and for the steps you took to develope and encourage me through my younger years. You truly are my hero. Rest In Peace Mr. Don.

  2. REPLY
    Shannon Stafford says

    I’m so sorry to hear of Don’s passing. He was a wonderful and sweet man and a good friend to my dad. I’m grateful to have known him. My thoughts and prayers are with your family. Much love to you all.

  3. REPLY
    Judith Streight says

    Rodney and I were so sorry to hear of Don’s passing.

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