Kelly Jernigan

Kelly Franklin Jernigan, 86, of East Ridge, departed from this earthly life and went to his eternal home in Heaven on Saturday, June 9, 2012.Kelly proudly served his country during World War II as a sergeant in the United States Army, stationed in Italy.He was retired from Crane Enamel Company, where he was employed for 37 years. He was nick-named "Big John" by his fellow employees for his incredible strength and endurance.Kelly was a member of Delray Baptist Church and he had been a choir leader at several churches in the area over the years.Kelly was preceded in death by his parents, Austin and Claudia Jernigan; brothers, Cannon, Bill and Ray Jernigan; and sisters, Ruby Jernigan and Louise Lewis.Kelly is survived by his loving wife of 68 years, Mildred Jernigan; daughters, Linda (Doug) Baker, of Cordova, Tenn., and Angie (Terry) Jeffers, of East Ridge; granddaughter, Lindsay Jeffers, of East Ridge; sister, Mildred Melton and brother, Wayne Jernigan, both, of Nashville; and several nieces and nephews.The family will receive friends from 4 to 8 p.m. today at the funeral home.Funeral Services will be held at 11:30 a.m. on Wednesday, June 13, at the funeral home with Rev. Ronnie Childress officiating.Interment will follow the service in Lakewood Memory Gardens South.The family wishes to thank the caring staff of Chattanooga Hospice, especially his Hospice nurse, Charlotte, the Health Center at Standifer Place and DCI Dialysis in East Ridge for their excellent care, comfort and family support during this difficult time.Arrangements are by the East Chapel of Chattanooga Funeral Home, Crematory, and Florist. 404 South Moore Road. Please share your condolences at www.chattanoogaeastchapel.com.