Cathedral Kitchen’s former executive chef dies

“You ever try cooking?”

With these words – preceded by, “What are you going to do with your life?” – Jonathan Jernigan unlocked a new way of life for Velton “Adam” Adams in 2009.

The kitchen volunteer, living in a halfway house and working to turn himself away from a path of drugs and robbery, decided to enroll in Cathedral Kitchen’s Culinary Arts Training Program. With Jernigan’s guidance, Adams soon made his way to a deli department manager position at Restaurant Depot.

“Chef Jonathan was like a brother to me, a lot of love,” the former student said.

Jernigan, former executive chef at Camden’s Cathedral Kitchen, died during the July 4 weekend. He was 56.

For 12 years, from 2008 to 2020, the Willingboro native served the homeless and hungry, crafting meals and leading staff for Cathedral Kitchen’s Monday-Friday lunches; Saturday dinners; café; its food truck and outreach to halfway houses. 

He was a key figure in the start of the nonprofit organization’s Culinary Arts program, a 17-week training course that has prepared more than 400 graduates for careers in the food-service industry. During the Class of 2021 graduation ceremony July 8, a moment of silence was held for the pioneer.

“He was a special person with a big heart for guests, culinary students, and staff,” recalled Alex Willis, Cathedral Kitchen’s community relations director, noting Jernigan’s “passion for cooking and giving people good food.”

A graduate of The Restaurant School at Walnut Hill College, Philadelphia, Jernigan had more than 40 years of professional culinary experience.  He worked at the Greenbrier Restaurant, Cherry Hill, and as executive chef in Camden’s Harbor League Club. He also served as a private caterer and made appearances on television programs such as “Chopped” and “The Chew.”

After stepping down from Cathedral Kitchen last July, Jernigan focused on catering and starting up a food truck.

Adams said he will always be grateful for meeting Jernigan. Today, Adams is a husband, homeowner and a full-time employee at Cathedral Kitchen, delivering meals locally to area halfway houses, not unlike the one in his past – a past changed thanks to Jernigan.

“He showed me how to love,” Adams said, his voice catching.

Funeral services for Jernigan were still being finalized as of press time.  For more information, visit www.mayfuneralhomes.com.