Marjorie Jernigan

Marjorie (Alsmeyer) Jernigan, 91, passed in her sleep early Thursday morning, July 4, 2024. Marge was born September 12, 1932, in Sebring, Florida, at Weems Hospital.

She was raised in Sebring, graduating from Sebring High School in 1950. She met her future husband, Bill Jernigan, at church camp when she was 15. They were married in Sebring at the First Methodist Church in February 1953. She earned her bachelor's degree in Elementery Education from the University of Florida in 1953. Later she would earn a master's degree as well. She was a lifelong 3rd grade teacher and later I her career she was Assistant Principal in elementary schools in Sebring, Lake Placid and Avon Park, Florida. After retirement she continued working with children at the Methodist church, volunteering to lead the weekly after school program known as Sprouts. She taught school in the day and worked tirelessly with her husband Bill to establish Sebring Animal Hospital, beginning in 1963. Marge, along with Bill and other parents, were volunteer youth leaders at the Methodist church. She and her husband were members of the church choir for more than 50 years.

Marge was recognized for her many years of service to children when she received the 2010 Champion for Children award.

Marge will be remembered as a kind, generous Christian, a teacher, UF Gator, wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, friend and mentor to many in Sebring and Highlands County. Her family loved her and will miss her. We know she has a new perfect body, is not in pain, and is in the arms of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

Marge was preceded in death by her parents, Louis and Lottie Alsmeyer, and husband of 66 years, Bill. She is survived by her brothers Dick (Helen) and Bill (Catherine) Alsmeyer, daughter Barbara Baker, son Larry (Jill) Jernigan, Grandchildren Jarett (Kristen) Baker, Travis (Becca Diddams) Baker, Amanda Rotroff, Daniel (Karen) Jernigan, and 5 great grandchildren, Annabelle, Alayna, and James Jr., Wesley, and Mollie.

In lieu of flowers, donations are suggested for First Sebring Church's newly formed preschool or a charity of your choice.

A celebration of life will be held on Sunday, July 14, at First Sebring Church at 2 pm.

Fellowship and refreshments will follow the service.

Arrangements by Morris Funeral Chapel.