Nancy B Jernigan

With sorrow and eternal gratitude for a life well lived, we mourn the passing of Nancy Brittain Jernigan, 95, of Birmingham, Alabama. She entered the presence of Jesus her Savior on February 21, 2025, surrounded by her children. According to the Holy Scriptures that she cherished, the death of God’s faithful saints is precious in His sight (Psalm 116:15). Nancy’s faith was the cornerstone of her life, and her devotion to the Lord was evident in every act of service and gesture of kindness.

Born on March 25, 1929, in Oneonta, Alabama, Nancy was the youngest of four children born to Vivian Wiggins Brittain and Dr. John Pryor Brittain. She spent her childhood in Oneonta, where she attended Blount County High School. Later she pursued higher education at the University of Alabama, earning her bachelor’s degree. After graduation, she worked in retail in Atlanta before moving to Birmingham to work for a local architect. During that time she met the love of her life, William Carl Jernigan. Their covenant marriage was a beautiful testament to devotion and faith, lasting 63 wonderful years.

Nancy’s greatest joy was found in her role as a wife, mother, and grandmother. An attentive provider, she exemplified many of the characteristics of a Proverbs 31 woman. An accomplished homemaker, she nurtured her family with tender care and steadfastly met their needs. She was a guiding light to her children and grandchildren all of whom she affectionately called sugar.

A woman of many talents and passions, Nancy was an avid gardener and cook. Season after season she spent hours planting, harvesting and preserving fruits and vegetables for family and friends. It was truly a labor of love. Her legendary Southern fare— notably green beans, fried okra and dill pickles—was a cherished staple at family gatherings. At holiday, she wowed with her bakery-worthy Christmas cookies that will always be missed. She had the gift of hospitality and made others feel welcomed and loved, insisting all guests stay for a meal. Preparing wholesome culinary treats for people was her love language, a very tangible way she tried to show how much she cared.

Nancy had an adventurous spirit with a love for travel and deep sea fishing. Always planning the next trip, she often boasted to her kids that she had taken them to 49 of the 50 states! Whether she and Carl were traveling across the country, spending time at their beloved camp house in Orrville, or reeling in a catch on the “Nancy J” at Orange Beach, she found joy in the thrill of packing her bags and setting off on a journey.

Nancy carried herself with elegance and humility. Crowned Miss Blount County in 1951, she was a natural beauty. She built lifelong friendships in her service clubs such as the Alea Literary Club and the Garden Club. A woman of deep compassion and service, for decades she dedicated her time to The Salvation Army and the Women’s Auxiliary Board. She also opened her home as a host family for many ministries and missionaries. If she discovered a need, she would quietly find a way to meet it…her trademark was generosity. Nancy Brittain Jernigan was a woman of

grace and faith. Her spirit, love and legacy is forever woven into the hearts of those who were blessed to know her.

She is preceded in death by her husband, Carl, as well as her siblings, Virginia Thompson, Paul Brittain, and Mary Allums. She leaves behind a legacy of love, faith, and family through her three children: Karen Wooten (Craig), Ann Jollit (Bill), and David Jernigan (Shannon); eight grandchildren: Lauren, Nick, and Hope Howard, Grace Ann Hardison (Will), Sarah Bradford (Miller), Chloe Jernigan, Cole and Raines Jernigan; and six great-grandchildren: Owen, Ward and Virginia Ann Hardison, Brock, Baine and Brody Bradford.

A Memorial Service celebrating Nancy’s extraordinary life will be held at 2:00 pm on Wednesday, February 26, 2025, in the Chapel of Briarwood Presbyterian Church. Donations may be made in her honor to her favorite charity, The Salvation Army.