Mary Beth Jernigan gives a big hug to Aubie, Auburn University’s mascot. (CONTRIBUTED)

MADISON – Growing up in a Navy family, Mary Beth Jernigan moved often and can’t claim a hometown. “Living in Madison for 20 years has given me a hometown of sorts. We’ve been here so long and is where my daughters call home,” Jernigan said.

Mary Beth and Dave Jernigan moved to Madison in 1995 when he was transferred from Quantico, Va. They decided on Madison for its small-town feel and good schools.

They now live in a neighborhood adjacent to Bob Jones High School that didn’t exist in 1995. Madison has several new schools, more shopping and restaurants, Dublin Park, Kids Kingdom, greenways and soon a movie theater.

“I love that I can’t go anywhere in town without seeing someone I know,” she said. “I love Madison for the excellent education my girls received; they were well prepared for college. I love Madison because this is a community that’s always willing to help others.”

In 1981, Jernigan graduated from Auburn University with a bachelor’s degree in fashion merchandising. “I love to tell people that I have a degree in shopping. I was an assistant buyer and buyer for department stores after college,” she said.

Mary Beth and her daughter co-own Cavendish Creations, which has a booth at Hartlex Antiques. They re-purpose wooden furniture and sell vintage items, like linens and silver-plate flatware. “I am ‘crafty’ and love to be creative,” she said.

Dave Jernigan is chief deputy sheriff for Madison County and a retired FBI Special Agent. Both Bob Jones graduates, their daughters are Katelyn, 27, a teacher, and Sarah, 24, a foster care social worker.

An avid football fan, Mary Beth cheers for Bob Jones and Auburn, along with the Cowboys, Panthers, Broncos and Giants. She serves on Huntsville/Madison County Panhellenic Alumnae Association for Alpha Chi Omega and Royal Family Kids’ leadership team.

At La Placita, their favorite restaurant, the owner Antonio treats them like family.

At Asbury United Methodist Church, she participates in a Bible study “with a fabulous group of ladies.” She previously served as adult volunteer coordinator for youth ministry at Asbury and worked as teacher and director for Madison UMC Preschool.