He was one of four sons raised by the late Jordan and Boquet Weatherly. Born on January 29, 1916, Abbott graduated from the New Bern school system in 1935. He married the late Margaret Paul in 1939.
Following high school, Abbott received an athletic scholarship to play quarterback for North Carolina State University. Despite his scholarship, an enrollment fee of $100 was required for admission. Given the economy at the time, few could afford $100 therefore he chose to enlist in the military and enrolled with the National Guard armory. In September 1940, he was called into the active army and in 1944 he was sent abroad to serve. The 113th artillery saw its first action at the invasion of Normandy. Abbott saw combat at the Battle of St. Lo, won three bronze stars in the Battle of Mortain, and his unit was an essential part of the Battle of the Bulge. Following WWII Abbott was highly involved with the US nuclear program. Abbott retired a highly decorated bird Colonel in 1969. Following his military career he was employed by Branch Banking and Trust at New Bern, NC until his retirement.
Abbott was a member of Broad St. Christian Church, New Bern Civitan Club, and was president of New Bern Golf and Country Club.
Abbott is survived by his brother Marvin; sister in law Zelma Peters; two sons, Abbott Jr. and John; five grandchildren; and three great grandchildren.
The Funeral will be held at Broad St. Christian Church at 12pm Saturday. Entombment will follow at Greenleaf Memorial Park.
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