Tommy L. Jernigan, age 72, of Elkhorn, passed away peacefully on Monday, May 11, 2026. Born on April 29, 1954, in Indiana, he was the son of the late Lloyd F. and Martha L. (Sommer) Jernigan.
Tommy was known throughout his life for his incredible work ethic and kind heart. He retired from the landfill industry after many years as a machine equipment operator, but to those who knew him, he was much more than that — he was a true handyman who could build, fix, or tinker with just about anything. He found joy in working with his hands and took pride in helping others whenever he could.
Tommy had a deep love for the outdoors. He enjoyed fishing, hunting, and caring for wildlife. Nothing ever went to waste in his eyes; he made sure leftover food was shared with the birds, squirrels, and deer he loved to feed. He appreciated nature’s simple beauty and often hung birdhouses in trees to make the outdoors feel even more welcoming.
He will also be remembered for his quick wit, generosity, and warm personality. Tommy had a special way of making people feel valued, and those who knew him genuinely enjoyed being around him. One of his most cherished trademarks was giving his grandchildren $2 bills and 50-cent coins — small gestures they will carry with them forever. Tommy was a bright light in the lives of many and will be deeply missed.
Tommy is survived by his loving wife, Linda Schmitt; his children, Katie Jernigan, Heather (Jernigan) Brown, Jared Jernigan, Brian (Jamie) Jernigan, Hannah Jernigan, and Malinda (Richard Jr.) Aney, and Melissa Schmitt; his brothers, Ralph (Judy) Jernigan and Dave (Storm) Jernigan; his grandchildren, Nicholas (Nicki), Gerald, Dontae, Quinn, Danyelle, Julian, Brayden, Jayden, Ashlynn Jernigan, Emily, and Noah Aney, Lila Heminover; and three great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by his first wife, Nancy Lynn (Cash) Jernigan; his parents, Lloyd and Martha Jernigan; and his siblings, Mary Sue Boatman, Ruth E. Whitehead, Joe Franklin, Steve Thomas, Eugene “Scooter” Marvin, and Mark Leslie.
No services will be held at this time. Haase-Lockwood & Associates Funeral Homes and Crematory of Elkhorn is honored to serve the Jernigan family. Online condolences may be shared at www.haaselockwoodfhs.com
