GOLDSBORO, N.C. — Retired furniture retailer Sam A. Jernigan III died on May 22 at age 76.
Jernigan was born in Durham County, N.C., to Sam and Marie Jernigan. After graduating from Belmont Abbey College, he joined his father at Jernigan Furniture, the family business since 1924. While working alongside his father, he learned the values of hard work, honesty and customer care that would become the hallmark of the business, which is now in its fourth generation of family ownership. He held a special bond with his father, whom he described as his best friend and missed dearly since his passing five years ago.
Jernigan continued the family furniture legacy by working alongside his son, Andrew, until he retired in 2017.
He also gave his time to his community, volunteering for many years at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, where he welcomed newcomers to the area during biweekly briefings. He was also a lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church.
He is survived by his wife, Eleanore, four children and eight grandchildren. In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to Saint Mary Catholic Church, 1603 Edgerton Street, Goldsboro, N.C. 27530.