LARRY ‘GATOR’ JERNIGAN

Mr. Larry ‘Gator’ Jernigan, age 76, of Bonifay, Florida passed away October 22, 2026, at Doctors Memorial Hospital in Bonifay.  He was born March 26, 1950, in Bonifay, Florida to the late Paul Miller Jernigan and Vanera Pate Jernigan.  In addition to his parents, Larry was preceded in death by father-in-law and mother-in-law, John and Katie Amerson, brother and sister-in-law, Jimmy and Marcia Jernigan, sister, Jerri Casey, sisters-in-law, Barbara Jernigan and Jeanette and Melvin Harcus, niece, Debie Harcus Herring and nephews, Coby Webster and Kevin Amerson.

Gator was a proud 1968 graduate of Holmes County High School.  Following high school, he attended Vo-Tech, where he completed his HVAC training in May 1969. He married his high school sweetheart, beginning a lifelong journey together.  Larry honorably served his country in the United States Air Force for four years, including two tours of duty during the Vietnam conflict.  

Throughout his working years, Larry held several jobs, including positions with Tri-County Gas, M&J Heat and Cooling, Louisiana-Pacific Lumber Company, and Walmart. Through his years of work and life experiences, he built relationships and made connections with those around him.  Outside of work, Larry enjoyed spending time with his family and being outdoors. He was known for his willingness to lend a helping hand to others.

Mr. Jernigan is survived by his wife, Linda Jernigan of Bonifay, FL; one daughter, Shannon Dowling and husband Sam of Bonifay, FL; one brother, Mike Jernigan of Bonifay, FL; two grandchildren, Peyton Dowling and Taylor Dowling; one great-grandchild, Ean Adams; numerous nieces and nephews.

Funeral services will be held 2:00 PM Monday, October 26, 2026, at Gully Springs Baptist Church.  Interment will follow in the Gully Springs Baptist Church Cemetery with Peel Funeral Home and Bonifay Crematory in charge of arrangements.  The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service from 1 to 2 PM at Gully Springs Baptist Church.