Blondell J Davis joined heaven’s celebration on Easter Sunday, April 4, 2021. She peacefully passed away at home with family members present. She recently celebrated her 96th birthday on March 17, 2021.
Visitation will be held Thursday, April 8th from 12:30 pm - 1:30 pm at Family Funeral Care on Summer Avenue, followed by a graveside service at 2:00 pm in Memphis Memorial Gardens, 6444 Raleigh LaGrange Rd.
Blondell was preceded in death by her mother (1933) father (1976), her three brothers Aubrey N. Jackson (1953), Finus L Jackson (1953), Charles L Jackson (1993), and her two sons Harold Jernigan, Jr, (2004) and Leonard Jernigan (2007). She was also preceded in death by a host of aunts, uncles, sister-in-laws, cousins and close friends.
Blondell was born in Bradford, TN on March 17, 1925. Her parents were Fred Lee Jackson and Willie “Grace” Sanders Jackson. She was the oldest of four living children, and the only daughter. Blondell and two of her brothers spent 8 years in the Baptist Children’s Home in Franklin Tn after their mother passed away from Tuberculosis in 1933. At the age of 16, she left the Baptist Children’s Home and took on the duties of taking care of her Dad and 3 brothers. Later, she moved to Memphis in order to find a job. Initially, she worked at a meat packing plant. By this time, World War II was underway and she made her contribution to the war effort by working for Goodyear assembling tires for the military. Blondell proudly displayed her patriotic love for this country and its military. No doubt, living and working during war time was the inspiration for her patriotism. Blondell spent much of her adult life in Memphis. It was there that she married and raised her two sons, Harold and Leonard Jernigan. Eventually, Blondell was hired at First National Bank, Memphis and remained a dedicated employee for 36 years until her retirement. While living in Memphis, Blondell was a member of The First Assembly of God Church. She spent her retirement years gardening and enjoying time with family.
Blondell leaves behind numerous loved ones who will miss her quick wit, loving kindness, generous and cheerful disposition, and the many beloved stories of this remarkable lady. She was a friend to all she met and never hesitated to help others. She had a true servant’s heart.
The family would like to express their sincere thanks to all the staff of AseraCare Hospice who so lovingly helped care for Blondell, especially to Jennifer, Stacey, John, Mark, and Shea.
