May 22, 2025, 76, Goldsboro —
Sam A. Jernigan, III, 76, passed away on Thursday, May 22, 2025. Born in Durham County, he was the son of the late Sam A. Jernigan, II, and Marie Lawson Jernigan. Sam passed away peacefully, leaving behind a legacy of laughter, kindness, and unwavering dedication to those he loved.
Sam is survived by his wife, Eleanore Chapman Jernigan; children, Conoley Jernigan Coonley and husband Howard of Philadelphia, PA, Sarah Elizabeth Kezirian and husband Stephen of Boston, MA, Sam A. Jernigan IV and wife, Eliza Heussler of New York City, NY, and Andrew Thomas Jernigan of Goldsboro; and 8 grandchildren with one on the way.
Sam was a man who never met a stranger. His infectious smile and bright spirit could light up any room, and his presence was a blessing to all who had the pleasure of knowing him. In his later years, Sam found profound purpose in making others happy. He was known for sharing his small collection of jokes—delivered with perfect timing and a gleam in his eye. One of his favorites: “What do you call a bear with no teeth? A gummy bear!” Whether chatting with customers at the furniture store, catching up with friends over lunch at B&G Grill, or simply running errands, he had a way of making everyone feel seen and valued.
A lifelong member of St. Mary Catholic Church, Sam lived his faith daily—not just in prayer, but in the way he treated others—with generosity, compassion, and joy. A deeply faithful man, Sam lived his Catholic values openly and joyfully. A highlight of his spiritual journey was a trip to Italy and the Vatican just a few years ago—a pilgrimage that reflected the depth of his devotion. He was a proud and loving son, holding a special bond with his father, whom he described as his best friend and missed dearly since his passing five years ago.
Sam was a proud alumnus of Belmont Abbey College, where he earned a degree in Economics and Business and was a member of the Pi Kappa Phi fraternity. He also generously gave his time to his community, volunteering for many years at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, where he warmly welcomed newcomers to the area during biweekly briefings.
Sam was the proud owner and operator of Jernigan Furniture, a business that has been in his family for generations. He began working in the store alongside his father, learning the values of hard work, honesty, and customer care that would become the hallmark of the business. Sam continued that legacy by working side by side with his own son, making Jernigan Furniture a true multi-generational labor of love. For decades, the store has been more than just a place to buy furniture—it’s been a trusted cornerstone of the community, built on Sam’s honest work, integrity, and genuine care for his customers.
Above all else, Sam was a devoted family man. His love for his family was the guiding force in his life, and he made sure they knew it every single day. He was a husband who never let a day pass without showing his love and appreciation, a father who was endlessly supportive, and a grandfather who delighted in every moment he spent with his grandchildren. Family dinners, weekend gatherings, and simple everyday moments were where Sam found his greatest joy. His wife spoke often of how deeply he loved and cherished them all—how he prioritized time with his family, celebrated their successes, and stood by them in every challenge. To Sam, nothing mattered more than the people he loved, and his legacy of warmth, dedication, and unconditional love will live on through them.
Sam’s greatest joy in life was being a grandfather—affectionately known as “Granddaddy,” and lovingly dubbed “Super Granddaddy” by his grandchildren. He was playful, adventurous, and always up for anything his grandkids dreamed up—from zip-lining through the mountains to kayaking across lakes. No matter the challenge, if his grandchildren asked, Sam said yes with a smile. Fishing was a cherished tradition he shared across generations, starting with his own grandfather and continuing with his grandkids on every visit back to Goldsboro. He loved to sing and dance, especially shag, and his laughter and energy made every family moment unforgettable.
Sam leaves behind a legacy of love, laughter, and community. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on in the countless lives he touched.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, May 27, 2025 at 11 a.m. at St. Mary Catholic Church. Sam will be laid to rest at Evergreen Memorial Cemetery. The family will receive friends Monday evening, May 26, 2025 at Jernigan Furniture of Goldsboro from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. as well as Tuesday afternoon following the service at The Firehouse at 1:30 p.m. The Firehouse is located at 109 E Ash St, Goldsboro, NC 27530.
In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be given to Saint Mary Catholic Church, 1603 Edgerton Street, Goldsboro, NC 27530 in memory of Sam.
