Charles Wesley Abernethy Sr.

If you were in dad’s house at night, you would hear him talking to his Jesus before getting into bed. The tone of the conversation made it clear he was speaking to someone he truly knew...not just talking to someone that he heard about in a Sunday sermon.

Our dad was the real deal. He loved his family and he taught them by example that the only thing that really matters in this life is indeed who you know. That person is Jesus Christ.

No matter how many times dad told this story, his eyes would light up and you could absolutely feel the presence of God. He was working out of town as a young man and his back went completely out. He was unable to get up because of the pain. He prayed for Jesus to heal him and he said he heard in his spirit... you can get up now. He knew it was God and got straight up, went to work and never had back pain again.

He knew his God and that fact makes dad’s passing into eternity a peaceful, joyful moment for the family members he temporarily leaves behind. Dad’s beliefs will remain in the hearts of his children, grandchildren and great grandchildren who also love Jesus and know the one true God who has not changed - he is still the same miracle working, loving God.

Family members celebrating his home going include his sister Patti Merrington (Linnie) of Concord NC, three children, Leigh Ann Benlian (JP) of France, Chuck Abernethy (Vickie) of NC and Mecca Cross (Larry) of SC. There are two grandchildren Brannon J Walters (Kaity) and Megan Houghtaling (Rodney) both of SC. His great grandchildren are Olyvia Walters, Kaydence Johnson and Alexis Johnson.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Ola Ree Abernethy, his parents Henry and Mary Lee Abernethy and his sister Jo Ann Abernethy.

The family is so thankful to Angie Sims and Janice Fox for so faithfully and lovingly caring for both our parents over the last few years. Also a special thank you to Windy and Tina for being so precious with dad during his last couple of weeks.

As he wished, there will be no funeral service, however the family will have an outside memorial gathering this spring.

If you wish to celebrate his life, you may make a donation to Rocky River Presbyterian Church, Harrisburg, NC. Rocky River Presbyterian always held a special place in his heart.

Gaskin Funeral Service, Matthews, NC is assisting the family.