Butch Jernigan

Evans, GA – Mr. William Benjamin “Butch” Jernigan, Jr., 74, entered into rest on Tuesday, May 20, 2025 at his home. He was surrounded by his family, including his loving wife of 54 years, Santalee Judy “San” Jernigan

If heaven has a golf course, a cigar lounge, and a Friday night table with good bourbon and better friends, then Butch Jernigan is already holding court. A devoted husband, proud father, and the world’s most huggable Pop, Butch spent his days fixing cable as Comcast’s director of engineering and his nights fixing referee calls—or making them—as a high school football official for over 20 years. He played defensive back at Newberry College and often told stories about the large number of interceptions his team shared.

As “Coach Butch,” he roamed the Columbia County rec fields with a whistle, a heart of gold, and a wallet that always seemed open for kids in need of cleats. He was a mentor, a leader, and the only man who could passionately debate football strategy and cigar brands in the same breath.

A passionate golfer, Butch could be found in his spare time right where he loved to be—on the course, surrounded by friends and the occasional questionable lie. A diehard Alabama fan, he now watches Bama from the ultimate skybox.

He was also a lifelong dog lover, preceded in death by many beloved pups—especially Christy, who no doubt met him at the gates, tail wagging.

His corner table at T-Bonz may be empty, but his stories, laughs, and legacy live on in everyone lucky enough to have called him family, coach, or friend.

In addition to his high school sweetheart, San, Butch is survived by children: Tres Jernigan (Lindsay), Tara Jernigan Andrews; grandchildren: Will Jernigan IV, Madeline Ruby Jernigan; faithful canine companions: Sela and Ella; and many other loving family members. He was preceded in death by his parents: William Benjamin “Bill” Jernigan, Sr. and Mary Elizabeth “Tootsie” Jernigan; sister: Sheila Sweet; and brother: Keith Jernigan.

The memorial service will be held Saturday, May 31, 2025 at 11:00A.M. in the Chapel of Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors with Pastor Sonny Jones officiating. 

Honorary pallbearers will be Jody Dickson, Al Russo, Robert Omar, Andy Pilger, Rex Goble, Matt Haak, Danny Bailey, and Gil Rodriguez. Special thanks to the PGA Men's Association and Bartram Trail Men's Golf Association.

Memorial contributions may be made to your favorite local animal rescue or to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society

The family will receive friends one hour prior to the service at Thomas Poteet & Son Funeral Directors, 214 Davis Rd., Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8484. Please sign the guestbook at www.thomaspoteet.com