E. D. "Ickey" Jernigan, born on September 9, 1907, left a lasting legacy in the realm of Tennessee high school athletics before passing away on December 8, 1999. His career, particularly as an official, spanned over multiple decades, during which he immensely contributed to the development and recognition of high school sports within the state. In 1993, in recognition of his service and dedication, Jernigan’s remarkable contributions were formally honored with his induction into the TSSAA Hall of Fame.

Jernigan’s involvement with the TSSAA extended for 26 years, from 1930 to 1956, a period throughout which he officiated numerous sporting events across grade school, junior high, high school, and college levels. His officiating career wasn’t just limited to local games; it included notable assignments such as officiating matches for independent teams like the Harlem Globetrotters, and even participating in four state basketball tournaments—two for girls and two for boys—under the auspices of the TSSAA.

Beyond his on-court duties, Jernigan held significant administrative roles that further exemplified his leadership and passion for sports. He served for 20 years as the Commissioner of the Middle Tennessee Basketball Officials’ Association and was a Supervisor of TSSAA Officials for Middle Tennessee for a year. His profound understanding of the rules and fair play earned him a lifetime membership on the TSSAA Rules Committee, signifying his continual influence on sportsmanship and regulation adherence.

Adding to his decorated career, Jernigan also boasted a lifetime membership in the International Basketball Association and played on Middle Tennessee Teacher’s College's first freshman basketball team. A year before his TSSAA Hall of Fame induction, he was inducted into the Coffee County High School Hall of Fame in 1992, further underscoring the impact of his long and varied career in sports across levels and eras.

E. D. Jernigan's story is a testament to dedication, crossing the span from witnessing basketball's rudimentary beginnings with potato baskets as goals to receiving some of the highest honors in high school athletics. His legacy within Tennessee's sporting community remains unparalleled, encapsulated by his 1993 TSSAA Hall of Fame induction.

TSSAA Hall of Fame
Class: 1993
Category: Official