He grew up in Omaha, Nebraska. Russ graduated from the University of Nebraska at Omaha with a Bachelor of Science degree in Broadcasting. A natural engineer, Russ’s natural curiosity and knack for tinkering with technology of all kinds led him to a passion for television broadcasting early in high school.
Russ recently retired after 50 years in broadcasting, the last 27 spent at WKNO-TV/FM, the PBS/NPR affiliate in Memphis, Tennessee. Russ’s unrivaled love for television broadcasting eventually led to a successful career that includes serving on the PBS Engineering Committee through the development of digital television, designing and building WKNO’s Digital Media Center, and executive producing Emmy-award winning television programs. Russ was also the technical manager on mobile units televising the Olympics, a Super Bowl, multiple national political conventions, several seasons of basketball for the University of Memphis, and the live implosion of Baptist Hospital.
Outside of work, Russ had a full life which included an impressive woodworking shop and years of dedicated volunteerism. Russ spent more than twenty years volunteering for the City of Bartlett on the Board of Zoning Appeals and Planning Commission.
The only thing Russ loved more than work was his family. Russ is survived by his wife of 47 years, Patricia Abernathy, whom he met while in college; his son, Jason Abernathy (Willette); his two daughters, Jennifer Abernathy and Kaitlyn Abernathy Hansen (Charise); his sister, Sue Abernathy of Omaha, Nebraska; and his six granddaughters and one grandson.
A memorial service for Russ will be held on Wednesday, October 14th at St Ann Catholic Church, 6529 Stage Rd., Bartlett, TN 38134 with an 11:00 AM reception and 12:00 noon Mass.
In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to WKNO-TV/FM and St. Ann’s Catholic Church in Bartlett, Tennessee.
Fond memories and expressions of sympathy may be shared at www.FamilyFuneralMemphis.com for the Abernathy family.
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