Paul Hudson Abernethy

He is preceded in death by his father, Thomas Kenneth Abernethy; his mother, Helen Abernethy; his brothers, Wayne Abernethy and Alan Abernethy; and his daughter, Adrienne Abernethy.

He is survived by his wife, Twilla Star (Oswald) Abernethy; his son, Christopher Kenneth Abernethy; his son, Phillip Hudson Abernethy; and his brother, Lynn Abernethy (Andrea).

Paul grew up in Statesville, NC, where he graduated from Statesville High School. While in high school, he played clarinet in the band and was on the tennis team. From there, he left to attend the United States Coast Guard Academy. He also attended North Carolina State University, where he was a member of the Rifle Team. After leaving school he worked in several retail electronics jobs before finding his way into the aviation industry. While in that industry, he worked as an avionics technician; started Blackhawk Aviation Inc, a retail business selling supplies to private pilots; and worked as an aerial photographer for commercial sites. He also earned his pilot’s license. During this time, two life-changing events occurred in Paul’s life. In 1984, Paul started attending Brooks Avenue Church of Christ, where he chose to make Jesus Lord of his life. Then in 1986, he married the love of his life, Twilla Star Oswald, whom he had met through Church. They had two sons, Christopher and Phillip, as well as a daughter, Adrienne, who died shortly after birth. He invested heavily in his family, spending countless hours taking care of them. He was actively involved in his Church, including work with the missions committee and the audio/visual team. In retirement, Paul continued working hard, serving diligently in community automotive ministry through Triangle Church of Christ.

Paul was probably best known for his work with cars, especially serving others at Church or in the community who might not be able to fix their cars themselves. He was exceptionally good at fixing or repurposing not only cars, but all sorts of things around the house or yard. However, there was so much more to him. He always had a cup of coffee in his hand (morning, noon, or night). Paul was constantly listening to talk radio, even if just as background noise (probably influenced by his father’s work as a radio engineer). He could hit a fly with a rubber band from across the room. He loved to watch football and golf with his family, and to go fishing with his sons. When he had down time, Paul could be found reading an interesting blog, flying remote controlled airplanes/drones, or wandering in the garden with his wife.

Paul believed in hard work and being true to what you say. He always spoke kindly and without rudeness or vulgarity. He was gentle and kind-hearted towards all the people and creatures of the earth. Paul believed you should never waste anything; that even if he didn’t need it, someone could use it. He believed it was good to know something about everything, and you shouldn’t get caught up in the “what ifs.” Most of all, Paul believed in serving others. He would drop everything to help a neighbor, fellow believer, or stranger, and would willingly give the shirt off his back if he thought it would help.

Paul loved his wife and two sons deeply. He was the steady, constant foundation of their home and the roof of protection over their heads. When his sons moved into middle school, he humbly gave up the possibility of a career to serve them and his wife. He was always going out of his way to serve and take care of his family.

Paul was the ideal gentleman, a rare breed in today’s world. He was a true friend, a trustworthy man, a protector, a loving father, a faithful husband. He was a “do-it-yourselfer,” a creator, and a lover of music. Most of all, Paul was and would want to be known as a Child of God. His departure has left a huge hole in his family and in the Church. He will be deeply missed until all are reunited at the Resurrection.

A celebration of life will occur October 5, 2021 at 4:30pm at the Abernethy’s home (4117 White Pine Drive, Raleigh, NC 27612).

In lieu of flowers, the family requests that donations be made to the “Car Benevolence Ministry” (make checks out to Triangle Church (2103 Page Rd., Durham, NC 27703) with “Car Benevolence Ministry/Paul Abernethy” in the memo line); OR to the crowd-funded TV show “The Chosen” (http://watch.angelstudios.com/thechosen/pif)

Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.brownwynneraleigh.com for the Abernethy family.

Arrangements are being handled by Brown-Wynne Funeral Home, 300 Saint Mary's Street, Raleigh, NC.