Shannon Joshua "Papa" Jernigan

Shannon Joshua “Papa” Jernigan, 81, passed away July 25, 2020 in El Paso, Texas. A memorial service will be held virtually, by invitation, on what would have been his 82nd birthday, August 30, 2020. Virtual interment ceremony will take place at the Fort Bliss National Cemetery in El Paso, Texas, September 18, 2020 at 10:00 AM MDT. Mr. Jernigan was born August 30, 1938, in Wichita Falls, Texas. He joined the United States Marine Corps at age 19. He had the unique honor to serve in three branches of the United States military. He followed his time in the Corps by serving in the Army and concluded his career in the Navy. He was on active duty during several wartime periods, including Korea and Vietnam. Shannon received numerous honors during his military career, including winning several service-wide shooting competitions. In the latter part of his military service, he counseled many young service members in alcohol or drug use disorders. Shannon obtained his BA and MA degrees from National University in San Diego. He retired from the Navy as a Chief in 1982. Following his retirement from the Navy, Shannon engaged in several meaningful careers throughout his life. He lived and worked in various parts of the United States, as a college instructor, building inspector, general contractor, and realtor. Cowboy, artist, avid international traveler, writer, and motorcycle enthusiast Shannon loved all people and all cultures. A life-long learner, he pursued a Spanish-language immersion course in Puebla, Mexico in his 60s. He was an accomplished painter and wood whittler throughout his life and was commissioned to paint several pieces in his later years. His love for those who served the United States never waned, and he was active in founding and supporting charities that support veterans, notably Vet Power. Shannon Jernigan was successful in his endeavors because he brought a unique gift of joy, laughter, and caring in his interactions with others. He was larger than life, in both personality and stature. At 6’ 5” tall, he was a gentle giant who never met a baby or dog that didn’t instantly fall in love with him (and vice-versa). Shannon gave his heart to those who were close to him, imparting life lessons, silly jokes, and repetitive stories that never got old. He will be missed dearly. Devoted husband, loving father, Papa Shannon is survived by his loving wife, Elsa, of El Paso, Texas; his daughter, Tessa Will and husband Jim of Venice, FL; his son, Scott Jernigan and wife Katie of Houston, Texas; his son, Diego Amigo and wife Leesa of El Paso, Texas; brother Clif Jernigan and wife Nelda of Plainview, Texas; two sisters Sue Skinner of Talequah, OK, and Tamsey Schlegel of Wichita Falls, Texas; nine grandchildren, Lauren (Will) Griffis and husband Tony, Margaret Jernigan, Hannah (Will) Pennycuff and husband Justin, Emma Will, Simon Jernigan, Misha Amigo, Mila Amigo, Sienna Rose Amigo, and Erik Amigo; two great-grandsons, Caleb Griffis and Jaxon Pennycuff; and numerous beloved cousins, nieces, nephews and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joel and Ila Mae; three brothers, Robert, Bill, and Leo; and two sisters, Mae and Matline. Pictures, notes of remembrance, and condolences may be shared at his Facebook Memory Page: https://www.facebook.com/shannonjerniganmemorial Memorial donations to the veterans charity of your choice are appreciated. The family suggests Disabled American Vets (DAV), Homes for Our Troops, or vetpower.org.