George Johnson Jennings, Jr. (Tulia)

George Johnson Jennings, Jr., known affectionately as “Sonny,” passed away peacefully on Monday, October 14th at the age of 97 in Amarillo, Texas, leaving behind a legacy of dedicated service to the law, his community, and profound love of family. A memorial service will be held at 10:30 AM Saturday, November 9, 2024 in the Kornerstone Funeral Directors Chapel with burial following at Rose Hill Cemetery under care of Kornerstone Funeral Directors of Tulia.

Born on November 11, 1926, in Waco, Texas, Sonny was the eldest child of Dorothy and George Jennings, Sr., growing up in Tulia alongside his two siblings, Kelly and Dorothy Lou. George attended Texas Tech University in 1944, where he lettered in varsity football. He enlisted in the Navy the following year and was stationed in Hawaii. He returned from the service and attended Baylor Law School. As a member of the Naval Reserve, he was called back to service during the Korean conflict and was stationed in Japan. He loved to tell stories of his time there, recounting many tales of his job as a law clerk and teaching his children phrases, he had learned in Japanese. His lifelong commitment to the law began as a passion that saw him through a remarkable seventy-year private law practice. He served the community diligently, leaving an indelible mark as the county attorney of Swisher County for numerous years.

 George’s legal acumen and unwavering dedication were recognized by the Texas Bar Association, honoring him with a prestigious fifty-year merit award—an accolade that spoke volumes of his commitment to justice and the law. His contributions extended beyond the courtroom; George was an active member of the Khiva Shrine fraternity and the Texas Freemasons, embodying principles of fellowship, charity, and goodwill throughout his life.

 In matters of the heart, George found deep companionship with Nell LaRoe Jennings, whom he cherished as his wife for forty years until her passing in 1988. His heart later found solace in marriage to Susan Widger Jennings. George’s profound impact on his family will forever be remembered. 

He leaves behind a loving legacy survived by his children, Tom Jennings of Prosper, Texas and Mary Ann Thomas (Constantine) of Amarillo, along with his cherished grandchild, Elizabeth Ann Bush of Amarillo. George is predeceased by his brother, Kelly Jennings and his sister, Dorothy Lou Fox. He is survived by a sister-in-law, Clara Jennings. He is fondly remembered by numerous nieces and nephews. Additionally, George is survived by Susan, his devoted wife of Dallas, and is lovingly remembered by his stepchildren: Shannan Brice, Kevin Brice (Laurie), Andrew Brice, Maureen Brice, and Carrie Ellen Sethi (Kash), all of whom held a special place in his heart.

 George Johnson Jennings, Jr., will be remembered for his love of the law, unwavering dedication to his country and community, and most importantly, for the warmth and love he shared with those fortunate enough to know him. His life was a testament to the values of integrity, compassion, and commitment, leaving an enduring legacy.