Gary Alan Jernigan

Born August 12, 1959

Entered Heaven August 13, 2026

Gary A. Jernigan, age 67, died on August 13, 2026, from heart failure and pulmonary edema after being recently diagnosed with stage three multiple myeloma, a rare blood cancer.

Gary was born on August 12, 1959, to the late Jerry and Nina Jernigan in Ozark, Alabama. As a child, Gary received Jesus as his Savior and was baptized as a public declaration of his faith. After high school he served his country as a U.S. Marine. After discharge from the military, he began a long career as a police officer, first in Ozark, then in Montgomery then at Auburn University followed by the City of Auburn and finally with the City of Opelika. After retiring from public service, he started a lawn care business that thrived in the local area. One of the ways he honored his mother was frequently bringing his lawn care equipment to Ozark and caring for her lawn. He was often generous in giving time and resources to help his family and friends. He was an avid fan of the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Atlanta Braves. Hunting and fishing were two of his favorite hobbies.

Gary leaves behind a testimony of God’s amazing grace. In October of 2024, Gary reunited with the love of his life, Theresa Kriel, after 45 years. He and Theresa enjoyed family time with her two daughters and two grandchildren. The two young grandchildren brought “Papa G” great joy. Attending All Christ Church together was a priority for them on Sundays.

Gary is survived by his children, Matthew Jernigan of Auburn and Jessica Jernigan of Birmingham, his siblings Gayle Rogers of Montgomery, Cindy (Ian) McKelvey of Colorado Springs, and Mark (Kelli) Jernigan of Ozark. Other survivors include aunts Janice (Larry) Black of Canada and Theresa Jernigan of Ariton, many cousins, three nieces, and four nephews and his fiancé Theresa Jablecki-Kriel.

A Celebration of Life service will be held on Saturday, September 12, at 10 AM, at Frederick- Dean Funeral Home in Opelika, Alabama. In lieu of flowers, the family has requested that donations be made to All Christ Church in Auburn or to the International Myeloma Foundation at donate.myeloma.org.