Benny Calvin Abernathy

Benny Calvin Abernathy, age 90, went home to be with his Lord and Savior Jesus Christ on Wednesday April 22, 2026 at The Robin Johnson Hospice House in Dallas.  He was born in Gaston County, son of the late Fred Abernathy, and Mary Finger Abernathy.  In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his siblings:  twin brother Robert Abernathy, Betty Caldwell, Judy Helms, and Carolyn Fisher, as well as his son in law Joe Falls.

A man of strong faith and a heart full of love, he lived his life devoted to God and to those around him. With a song on his lips-often gospel- he made it a priority to share his faith and introduce people to God whenever he could.  He and his wife shared 67 wonderful years together, creating a life rooted in love, loyalty, and a family tree whose branches continue to grow through generations of strong, lasting marriages.  He was born a twin and took special joy in seeing the legacy live on through his twin great grandchildren.   He found joy in the simple things, often spending his time collecting cans and overlooked treasures, turning what others saw as little into something meaningful. 
Whether he was repairing something with his hands, walking mile after mile, or telling a good story, he had a way of leaving an unforgettable impression on anyone he came in contact with.  He built trails by hand through the woods behind his home in Stanley, creating a place where many have since walked, ridden four-wheelers, and spent time with family by the creek making lasting memories. Driven and endlessly kind, he lived with a smile on his face and a welcoming heart, always willing to help or give what he could, and he never met a stranger in his life.  He was truly a great man and will be forever remembered and missed.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife Joyce Abernathy ; his children: Michael Abernathy (Patricia), Jeff Abernathy (Terri), Richard Abernathy (Susan), and Patricia Falls; his brother Miller Abernathy; his grandchildren: Kristy Griffis (Keith), Chasity Rosenbaulm (Dusty), Angela Holcombe (Travis), Ricky Lingerfeldt (Carolann), Amber Lingerfeldt (Justin), and Ashley Abernathy (Josh); 12 great grandchildren, as well as his pet Flossie.

A service to celebrate his life will be held at 1:00 p.m. on Saturday May 2nd 2026 in the Chapel of Woodlawn Funeral Home in Mount Holly with pastors Tim Small and Lee Allison officiating.  The family will receive friends beginning one hour prior to the service on Saturday also at the Funeral Home.  Burial will follow at Hillcrest Gardens Cemetery.

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