Robert "Bob" Ercel Jernigan, Jr.

Robert "Bob" Ercel Jernigan, Jr.,, affectionately known as "Uncle Bob or Robin", was born on October 25, 1947, in Pine Bluff Arkansas, to Robert E. Jernigan, Sr. and Edna E. Tabor Jernigan, He caught the heavenly bus at the age of 77 on July 28, 2025.  Bob lived a life filled with dedication, passion, and a profound commitment to his family, friends, and community.

Bob’s professional journey began after graduating from White Hall High School in Pine Bluff and later the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville, where he majored in Animal Science. He dedicated over 20 years as an Instrument Technician at NCTR, a role he cherished before transitioning to a fulfilling career as an HVAC Technician with the Harrison Trane Company in Little Rock, where he worked for over 22 years. His work was not just a job but a labor of love, and he appreciated the camaraderie he shared with the younger men he affectionately referred to as his "boys." These relationships extended beyond retirement, as many of them maintained contact with Bob through visits and phone calls, which brought him great joy.

A proud veteran of the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War era, Bob exemplified a spirit of service that carried into every aspect of his life. Known for his kind-hearted nature and his watchful eye on the neighborhood, he earned the trust and friendship of many who knew they could rely on him in times of need.

Bob’s interests were vast, but a lifelong passion for duck hunting held a special place in his heart. He delighted in reminiscing about his adventures in spots like Wabbeseka Scatters, the Old Mill, and the Almyra and Stuttgart areas. An avid collector, he had an extensive knowledge of firearms, capable of detailing the year, make, model, and prices of nearly every gun he encountered. His love for reading was also apparent, as he spent countless hours engrossed in books on gun repair, collecting, and hunting.

Left to cherish his memory are his best friend and sidekick for many years, Glenda Berry of Benton, Arkansas, along with his two daughters, Leigh Ann Manzer (Kevin) of Hot Springs, Arkansas, and Lauren Limperis (Kirt) of Greenbrier, Arkansas. He is also survived by his two granddaughters, Auri Limperis and Samantha Stoddard; grandson, Nik Limperis; niece, Beth Andrews (Mark); nephew, John Leslie; and a great niece, three great nephews, along with countless other friends and family who were touched by his kindness and generosity.

Bob was preceded in death by his beloved parents, his sister Loree Leslie of Conway, Arkansas, and a dearly loved great nephew, Tabor Lee Andrews of Conway, Arkansas. He will be missed dearly by all who knew him.

A memorial service to honor Bob's life will be held on August 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM at Smith Family Funeral Home in Benton, Arkansas. The family invites all who knew and loved him to join in celebrating the remarkable life of Robert "Bob" Ercel Jernigan, Jr. A private burial will be held at a later date in Louisiana. The family will be at their home.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Le Bonheur Children's Hospital in Memphis, Tennessee at https://secure2.convio.net/wcc/site/Donation2;jsessionid=00000000.app20118a?3280.donation=form1&df_id=3280&mfc_pref=T&NONCE_TOKEN=5BCD62625ED07270ECBA5740425DDDE8.

Services entrusted to Smith-Benton Funeral Home.  Online guestbook:  www.SmithFamilyCares.com.