Michael Jennings

Michael Graham Jennings, 92, passed away Monday, July 5, 2010 in Duke Medical Center following a brief illness. Mr. Jennings was born in Barnwell, SC, on Oct. 9, 1917, but spent most of his early years in Greenville, SC. In 1941 he was introduced to his future wife, Mary Emma Robbins. The outbreak of WWII forced a postponeent of vows as Mr. Jennings was immediately shipped off to Aviation Cadet Academy following his voluntary enlistment with the U.S. Air Force. He later received his Officers Commission upon graduation. After completing advanced training, he was sent to the European Theatre of Operations, as a pilot of a C-47 Troop Carrier. The C-47 filled many different jobs including the transportation of paratroopers to battle zones, flying supplies to advanced units aneevacuating the wounded back to England. He was awarded two Air Metals and two Presidential Citations. Mr. Jennings was discharged in 1945 where uponee returned home to his faithful fianeeacute; who sooneecame his devoted wife. The couple was blessed with two lovely children, and 56 years together. Professionally, Mr. Jennings joined the brokerage firm of Harris Upham, later to become Smith Barney Harris Upham, following a merge of the two international firms. Mr. Jennings retired from the firm in 1980 as a Vice President. Mr. Jennings is survived by his daughter Mary Louise Garren of Franklinton and son Michael Jennings, Jr. of Oxford. He is predeceased by his wife Mary Robbins Jennings. Graveside services will be held on Friday, July 9, 2010 at 11 AM at Maplewood Cemetery, 1621 Duke Uneersity Rd., Durham. Visitation will be held on Thursday, July 8, 2010 from 6 PM to 8 PM from Hall-Wynne Funeral Service, 1113 W. Main St., Durham. Memorial contributions may be made to Blacknall Memorial Presbyterian Church, 902 Perry St., Durham, NC 27705.