David Sullivan Jennings,78, passed away peacefully on September 17, 2021 at the home of his daughter in Lithia, Florida. He will be remembered by all who knew him as a great athlete and a servant of God.

Born January 25, 1943, David graduated from Ripley High School in Ripley, Tennessee, where his outstanding athletic ability led to selection to the All-State football team and a state championship in the 100-yard dash in track. He also excelled in baseball and basketball. He received a two-sport scholarship in baseball and football to Ole Miss where he also excelled. The crowning moment of his college career was winning the Sugar Bowl, which led to the Rebels being named National Football Champions for the 1962 season.

A pre-season All-American pick, his athletic career was cut short by a knee injury his senior year; he enlisted in the US Air Force where he played baseball until another knee injury ended his playing days for good.  After his military service, he returned home and began work as one of the first employees at American Greetings, retiring after 36 years. Back home in Ripley, he met and married his wife of 49 years, Audrey Connell Jennings.

An active member of Ripley First United Methodist Church, he served as Sunday School Superintendent and champion coffee maker for many years; he and other family members were instrumental in starting Lunch with Us, a program offering free lunch and a religious service to the community; he delivered meals to shut-ins through the church's Martha's Cupboard program and served in any capacity where he saw a need.

David is survived by his wife Audrey; his daughter Lyndy Jennings Castillo (Mario); the joy of his life, his granddaughter Emelia Aubrey Castillo; sister-in-law Linda Jennings; his beloved fur baby Sully; and grand dog Holly, along with several nieces and nephews who loved him dearly.  He was preceded in death by his parents, Mr. & Mrs. A. L. Jennings; brother and sister-in-law Leland & Annie Laura Jennings; and brother Louis Jennings, all of Ripley, Tennessee.

The family requests that any memorials be sent to Ripley First United Methodist Church or The Lauderdale County Humane Society.