WILLIAM KEMPER JENNINGS

William Kemper Jennings went to be with his Lord on February 2, 2018.   He was born in Pensacola, FL on Flag Day, June 14, 1944.  Alongside a big family with many cousins, Bill was raised in DeFuniak Springs. He graduated as salutatorian from Walton High School in 1962.  The loving competition between Bill and his valedictorian cousin will surely now continue in paradise.  Bill received his Bachelor of Science at Florida State University followed by a Master’s in International Affairs.  He taught History at Madison High School prior to attending law school.  Bill graduated summa cum laude from FSU College of Law in 1972. While in Tallahassee, Bill enjoyed hosting the only R & B radio show in the area.  He was well known as “Wild Bill Jennings” on WTAL. Following college, Bill served in the U.S. Army Reserve where he served as MP and was recognized for his leadership skills, being awarded “Outstanding Soldier” of his unit.  Bill loved sports, especially football, and especially Seminole football…and by the way, “Bobby Bowden hung the moon.”  Bill also had a lifelong love of the outdoors, and worked hard to help preserve the natural beauty of Northwest Florida and the Emerald Coast. Bill began practicing law in Pensacola as a public defender before enjoying a 45 year career in private practice.  He was one of a handful of Floridians board certified in both civil and criminal law. As a Christian, Bill was a man of great faith in the Lord.  As he faced challenges in life, this faith kept him ever joyful, positive, and at peace.  Bill was preceded in death by his father and mother, George Melville and Geraldine (Campbell) Jennings and his beloved wife Dane Jensen Jennings.

He is survived by his children, Cate Merrill (Collier) and Patrick Jennings (Kim); step children, Connie Kimrey Bowen (Jeff) and D.J. McCracken; four grandchildren, Kit and Caroline Ware, Collier Merrill Jr., and Maddie Jennings; sister, Vickie Jennings; and his best friend, Jimie Grey.  His family is also very grateful for the dear friendship he shared with Leroy Caldwell, who was by his side during the toughest days.

A time of visitation will be Tuesday, February 6, 2018 from 10 until 11 A.M. in Jerry Evans Chapel with the funeral beginning at 11:00 A.M. with Sonny Yates bringing the eulogy and Bob Campbell officiating.  Burial will follow in Magnolia Cemetery.