James R. Abernathy

James "Whitey" R. Abernathy, 86, of Evansville, passed away Thursday, March 13, 2014, at his home. He was born February 17, 1928, in Oakland City, IN to the late Cleo T. and Hallie Mae (Christmas) Abernathy. He worked at Whirlpool Corporation for 41 years and was a member of Local #808. He was affiliated with the National Campers and Hikers Association for 50 years. He sang in the Germania Maennerchor Choir for 25 years and was a member of the VFW #1114 for 39 years. He was an accomplished photographer and was the official photographer for local, state and national chapters of NCHA. He loved camping and fishing and was an avid collector. Jim was preceded in death by his parents; sister, Norma J. Harris; and nephew, Shawn Harris. He is survived by his wife of 55 years, Patsy A. (Bowman) Abernathy; daughters, Janet A. (Randall) Decker and Angela T. (Glen) Gore; son, Jeffrey T. Abernathy; granddaughter, Kelli L. Upton; and great-granddaughter, Marissa Forston. Services with military rites will be 10:00 AM Monday, March 17, 2014, at Alexander Memorial Park Heritage Chapel, officiated by Chaplain Carolyn Edwards, with burial in Alexander Memorial Park. Friends may visit Sunday from 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM at Alexander East Chapel. The family would like to say a special thanks to the staff at Deaconess Hospice who cared for Jim. Memorial contributions may be made to the Vanderburgh Humane Society, 400 Millner Industrial Dr., Evansville, IN 47710. Condolences may be made online at www.AlexanderEastChapel.com. Alexander Memorial Park Burial Location: Section #2, Lot 52A, Space 8