Mr. Dennis Ray Jernigan

Dennis Ray Jernigan 1950-2016

Dennis Ray Jernigan, natural story teller, barbecue fanatic, and friend to most, passed away on Saturday, July 9, 2016.

Dennis had a love of southern heritage, a rooted passion for old westerns, the perfect red velvet cake, and the Carolina Tarheels.  He also thoroughly enjoyed history, a well-timed joke, and entertaining masses of friends with food and stories, the latter of which you may have heard once or twice already...

He married the love of his life, Debra Joan Bennett, 42 years ago, and had one son, Scott of Kernersville, whom he took great pride teaching the proper operation of a pig cooker, giving your best in everything you do, and the ability to laugh at yourself.  

Dennis lived the majority of his life sockless, (a fashion statement he stood by with exceptions for funerals and weddings; of which he had a one-per-year limit), and with a large amount of Levi Garrett in his left cheek - neither of which interfered with his devotion, loyalty, and generosity towards others.

Though joy in his life was abundant, his grandson, Oliver (7), was his pride and joy.  Scott’s wife, Janel Boyd Jernigan, has also been such a strong support to Dennis through this recent journey.

A short and light-hearted service will be held at Philippi Presbyterian Church, 2800 Philippi Church Rd in Raeford on Wednesday, July 13, 2016 at 11:00 a.m.

Everyone who knew Dennis personally, or knew of his larger than life reputation, is asked to celebrate his life in their own way.  In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you make a donation to the music department of Philippi Church in Dennis’ honor.

Online condolences may be sent to www.sullivanshighland.com.

Services are entrusted to Sullivan’s Highland Funeral Service and Crematory, of Fayetteville, NC.