Michael "Mike" Eugene Jernigan Sr., born Oct. 1, 1955 in Mobile, Alabama, died on April 7, 2018.
He is survived by his wife of 13 years, Mary Kathleen Jernigan of Mobile; one son, Michael Eugene Jernigan Jr. of Mobile; three stepsons, Travis (Amanda) Petersen of Mobile, David (Emily) Kirkpatrick of Foley, Alabama and Austin Clay of Houston, Texas; grandchildren, Harmony Briann Jernigan of Mobile, Devin and Sean Petersen of Houston, Caleb and Layla Kirkpatrick of Foley and Connor Spry of Mobile; and siblings, Connie (Donald) Roth and Leo (Dale) Jernigan, both of Gulf Shores, Alabama.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Leo and Thelma Jernigan; and brother, Charlie Jernigan.
Mike attended Murphy High School and spent most of his life in Mobile. He moved to Gulf Shores 23 years ago and has lived in Foley with his wife for the past 13 years.
He was a talented singer/songwriter who shared his emotions through music with family and friends. He is known in the Mobile area as the voice of Jernigan's Hardware Store, where he joyfully encouraged customers to "Come on down." His jingle aired on local radio stations for the better part of the past three decades.
Mike also used music to share his love of Christ. On any given day, you could find him at the Foley Waffle House sharing stories and witnessing to those who passed through.
Mike never met a stranger and left an impact on everyone who had the honor of crossing his path. He was also a loving friend who offered a listening ear and a shoulder to lean on for those in need. Mike was proud of his family and didn't miss an opportunity to let people know it.
He also loved reminiscing about his old cars and sharing the pride he took in his work at NelBran Glass.
Mike was full of life and loved to spread cheer. During the holidays, he would dress as Santa for his grandchildren and friends. On St. Patrick's Day, you could bet on Mike's beard being a bright shade of green. Every Saturday during football season, you could count on seeing Mike in his Crimson Tide gear and hearing him deliver a loud "Roll Tide" yell.
He was truly full of life and loved sharing his time with family and friends. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him.
Funeral service will be held at Pine Rest Funeral Home in Foley on Friday, April 20, 2018 at 11 a.m.
Flowers are welcome but the family also encourages you to make a donation to your favorite animal rescue and/or tip your Waffle House waitress a little extra in honor of Mike.
