Samuel Perry Jernigan, 72, of Beaumont, born September 19, 1938, in Blue Mountain, Mississippi, died peacefully in his home on January 6, 2011. For his entire life, Sam's greatest joys were his family, his church and the opportunity to invest himself into the lives of countless others.

Sam was honorably discharged from the United States Navy, nuclear submarine division, after seven years of service.  He then graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Bible from Abilene Christian College (1969) with the Dean's Award. Sam was a minister of the Gospel in a number of cities over a span of eighteen years.  Even after leaving full-time ministry, Sam never lost his passion for teaching God's Word and encouraging others to pursue a deeper walk with Christ.

After several other successful careers, Sam found the utmost personal and professional fulfillment with Edward Jones Investments as an Investment Representative.   He gained a host of valuable friends and received numerous professional awards during his tenure with Edward Jones.  Whenever able, Sam spent time with fellow members of Champions of Honor from Cathedral in the Pines and the local chapter of United States Submarine Vets, Golden Triangle Base.

One of Sam's greatest treasures was his wife of forty-nine years, Margie Ann Sprayberry Jernigan, his beloved "Sweetheart".  He was her tender caregiver through many serious surgeries and recoveries.  She, in turn, considered it an honor to care for him during his two-year-long battle for life.

In addition to his loving wife, Sam is survived by his son and daughter-in-law, David and Patricia Jernigan; daughter and son-in-law, Lisa and James Ray, of Beaumont; grandchildren, Aaron and Aria Jernigan, Ethan and Caroline Ray of Beaumont; his uncle and adoptive father, Bill Baker and his wife Janell of Diboll; sisters, Glenna Francis of Diboll and Judy Pike and her husband Keith of Georgia; and brother, Garland Baker and his wife Helen of Diboll. 

His funeral service will be held at 10:00 a.m. Monday, January 10, 2011, at Cathedral in the Pines, 2350 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont. A committal will follow in the Mausoleum at Magnolia Cemetery under the direction of Broussard’s, 1605 North Major Drive, Beaumont.  A gathering of his family and friends will be from 4:00 p.m. until 7:00 p.m. Sunday, January 9, 2011, at Broussard's. 

Memorial contributions may be made to Cathedral Christian School, or to Cathedral in the Pines Men's Ministries, 2350 Eastex Freeway, Beaumont, Texas 77703.

The family wishes to thank the staff at Professional Health Care Home Health and Hospice, Dr. Joe and Linda Finley and Dr. Jay Schachner and staff for their excellent care.