Jernigan Furniture

2101 E. Ash St. 735-2549

For generations, Wayne County families have trusted the Jernigan family to help them turn their houses into homes.

From high quality furniture at reasonable prices to decorating and in-home design services, Jernigan Furniture has added that special touch to living rooms, dining rooms and bedrooms across Wayne County.

More than 50 years ago, a family furniture business established itself in downtown Goldsboro.

Sam Jernigan Sr., who died in 1970, opened his first store in 1923 with partner Marion Edwards. They operated from two locations — Mulberry Street in Goldsboro and one in Durham, which was run by the Jernigans.

Following Edwards' death, the Jernigans bought the Goldsboro store and consolidated the business into one location. Later, the business moved to its present site, at 2101 E. Ash St.

When the new store opened in 1955, it was renamed Sam Jernigan and Sons Furniture, with Sam Jernigan's two sons, Sam Jr. and Ed, on board. Sam III joined the business in 1986, at which time the name was again changed to Jernigan Furniture Co.

Today, Sam III's wife, Eleanore, serves as vice president of interior design and merchandising and their son, Andrew, is vice president of operations.

Top brand names of furniture are featured throughout the store for virtually every room in the house. Design personnel on staff also provide such services as advice on room decorations and arrangements, with many accessories to choose from in the store.

They also deliver and set up in homes — part of the company's legendary customer service.

"Whether the sale has been to a young couple just starting out or a family looking for their next heirloom, we see it as being more than about furniture," said Sam III. "It is about family. This family business treats everyone like family."

And while they sell such famous brand names as La-Z-Boy and Kincaid, and bedding by Simmons and Better Homes and Garden, their trademark has centered around one name in particular — Jernigan Furniture.

It is a tradition of quality and service that Sam III and now his son, Andrew, are dedicated to living up to as they prepare to take the business into the next generation.

"We are a family-oriented business and treat all customers like family," said Sam III. "Goldsboro is home for us because this is where our family heritage is. Four generations have committed to continue to serve this area by providing exceptional customer service and long-term relationships."