Brookie Donald Jernigan, age 76, passed away on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, at his home in
Claxton. He was born in Statesboro on March 30, 1947, to Brookie and Harveystein Sikes
Jernigan of Claxton. He lived in Evans County for most of his life.
Throughout his life, Donald had numerous accomplishments, leaving an indelible mark on his
community. Donald pursued his passion for agriculture and animal husbandry by becoming a
successful farmer. His dedication to nurturing and caring for animals earned him a place of
honor among his peers in the farming community.
For a time, he had the privilege of serving as president of the Evans County Georgia Young
Farmers Association and received the Georgia Young Farmer of the Year Award in 1980.
After years of farming, he decided to pursue a career with the Georgia Department of
Corrections. After serving many years with distinction, he retired.
When not cultivating his farm or tending to his duties as a public servant, Donald could often be
found in his workshop, engrossed in creative endeavors . He possessed an innate talent for
tinkering, and enjoyed spending countless hours welding and crafting various creative projects.
This outlet allowed him to express his artistic side while bringing joy to others through his
handcrafted creations.
In his older years, Donald found solace and contentment sitting on his porch, waving at his
friends as they passed by and blew their horns and waving to every stranger. It was during
these peaceful moments that he cherished the simple pleasures of life and reflected on the
memories he held dear.
He is survived by his daughters: Jennifer “JJ” (Brad) Baxter of Ludowici, Ginny Jernigan of
Claxton, and Crystal Todd of Jesup; grandchildren: Angel (Cody) Anderson, Amber
Walker, Caleb Mitchell, Bailey Mitchell, and Gage Todd; and great-grandchildren: Raelynn
Anderson, Finley Anderson, Jackson Mitchell, and Paisley Todd.
He is also survived by his dear sister Nan Palmer of Johns Island, SC, who provided love and
support throughout their lives together, niece, Kim Palmer Cook (Jay) of Gainesville, GA, and
nephew, Kit (Tania) Palmer of Johns Island, SC.
He also leaves behind a dear family friend, Norman Threatt of Claxton, with whom he shared
many memorable and happy moments. All of Norman’s family loved and cared for him, and The
Threats are a part of Donald’s extended family: Norman (Dana) Threatt, Amanda and Libby
Black, Daniel (Janna) Threatt, Reese and Jake Killebrew, Elaina (Juan) Gonzalez, Rose
Gonzalez.
Memorial funeral services will be conducted 2:00pm Saturday, October 21, 2023at the Evergreen Baptist Church with Dr. O.H. Smith officiating. The family will receive friends beginning at 1:00pm.
In lieu of flowers, please send an honorary donation to Evergreen Baptist Church, 5250 Ga
Hwy 129 South, Cobbtown, GA 30420.
Low Country Cremation and Burial has the honor to serve the Jernigan family.
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