I send my condolences to Abner's family. I worked with Abner, and one thing I can say is that he was a very humble guy. You have my blessings, and he will be missed.

-Wise

Today we grieve, but not without hope. We trust in the promise of eternal life, and we believe brother Abner now rests in the loving presence of the Lord—welcomed with the words: “Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise.” (Luke 23:43)

July 20,2025 during CFC Handmaids of the Lord Covenant Orientation

Dear Sis Lena, Sabrina and Elise,

I'm sorry for your loss.  My heart goes out to your family during this difficult time.  I pray that God surrounds you with comfort, strength and peace.  May the love you shared and the memories of your dad/husband bring you solace, and may his legacy continue to live on through all of you.

There are three memories of Bro Abner that I will always carry in my heart.  One that deeply touched me in early 2012, when Ed was diagnosed with lymphoma and had to begin treatment.  Bro. Abner came to our house with his daughter, Sabrina, bringing with him their alkaline water filter.  He insisted we use it while Ed was undergoing chemotherapy, explaining its benefits.

But he did not stop there.  With such sincerity and care, he said that Sabrina wanted to pray over her Tito Ed.  That simple, powerful gesture meant the world to us.  In that moment, I felt the depth of their compassion and their hope for Ed's healing.  I've always believed in the purity and power of a child's payer, and that day, I truly felt it.

The last memory  I want to share was just before Ed's first chemotherapy.  We gathered at Bro Abner's house for praise and worship, and during that time, he prayed passionately for Ed's healing.  The praise and worship lasted for hours, his heartfelt intercession filled with tears, left a deep impact.  Later, he told us he took days off afterward because he felt as if he had touched heaven-an overwhelming peace that assured him God has heard his prayer.

I want to end with this verse from Revelation 14:13 - And I heard a voice from heaven saying, "Write this: Blessed are the dead who died in the Lord from now on." "Blessed indeed," says the Spirit, "that they may rest from their labors, for their deeds follow them!

With much love,
Sis Marianne Deausen

Taken during Mary Ibanez 18th birthday party.

Taken during one of Francis D's birthday party.

We will carry your friendship in our hearts forever.

It was after a Singles for Christ meeting—one of those evenings when the Spirit lingered long after the closing prayer. A dozen friends wandered into a nearby hole-in-the-wall restaurant, the kind with mismatched chairs, handwritten menus, and a quiet charm only locals know. The food was simple, the lighting fluorescent, but the company made it unforgettable.
Abner sat among twelve friends at a long wooden table. Chopsticks stood in cups, pitchers of water sweated gently, and bowls of rice were passed with laughter and ease. Some stood behind their chairs, others leaned in close, smiling for the photo. Abner didn’t speak much that night, but his presence was steady—part of the rhythm of the group, part of the grace.
There was joy in the air. Teasing over hot sauce, stories from the meeting, spontaneous prayers of gratitude. And in the midst of it all, Abner’s quiet gaze reminded everyone that fellowship isn’t always loud. Sometimes, it’s found in simply showing up, sharing a meal, and being together.
This memory—humble, warm, and real—is a testament to the kind of man Abner was. He didn’t need to lead the conversation to leave a mark. His presence, even in silence, made the table feel whole.

It was a simple dinner after a CLP session at St. Anthony’s—a hole-in-the-wall Vietnamese-Chinese spot with floral wallpaper, handwritten menu signs, and mismatched dishes. The kind of place you’d never choose for ambiance, but somehow perfect for fellowship.
Abner sat at the table with fellow Singles for Christ, surrounded by bowls of rice, soy sauce bottles, and a metal container that wouldn’t stay shut. The others were chatting, laughing, passing spring rolls and teasing over fortune cookies. But Abner was quiet. He stared blankly at his plate, not withdrawn, just still—like someone letting the moment settle in.
There was something grounding in his silence. While others filled the air with stories and laughter, Abner’s presence reminded everyone that fellowship doesn’t always need words. Sometimes, just being there is enough.
That night wasn’t about the food or the setting. It was about the company—and Abner was part of what made it special. His quiet steadiness, his willingness to simply share space, turned a modest meal into a memory of grace.
In a world that often celebrates noise, Abner’s stillness spoke volumes. And in that little restaurant, tucked away near St. Anthony’s, he reminded us that sacred moments often come dressed in the ordinary.

A Quiet Moment of Grace
The photo captures a tender, reverent scene inside a modest parish hall, its walls lined with folding chairs and bulletin boards, softly lit by the steady hum of fluorescent lamps overhead. It’s nighttime, and the room carries a peaceful stillness, broken only by the quiet murmur of prayer.
Abner stands among his fellow Singles for Christ members, forming a loose circle around a table set with simple snacks—chips, cookies, and bottles of soda waiting to be shared. Their eyes are open, gazing downward or toward one another with quiet focus. Hands are gently clasped or resting at their sides, each person grounded in the moment.
Abner’s posture is relaxed yet purposeful. He’s not leading the prayer, but his presence radiates a quiet strength. There’s a calm in his expression, a sense of peace that seems to anchor the group. Around him, the others reflect that same spirit—young adults united by faith, friendship, and a shared desire to grow in grace.
The fluorescent lighting casts a soft, even glow across their faces, highlighting the sincerity etched into each one. There’s no rush, no performance—just a pause to honor God before fellowship. It’s a moment of gratitude, of hearts aligned, where even a blessing before snacks becomes a sacred act of community.
This photo doesn’t just capture a prayer—it captures the essence of Abner’s life: present, faithful, and quietly devoted. It’s a reminder that holiness often lives in the simplest gestures, and that Abner’s legacy is found not only in grand events, but in small, grace-filled moments like this.

Memorial Weekend memories at Deep Creek State Park - our very first CFC family trip with the kids!  We rented two houses and took turns preparing meals.

From 2011:  Francis Deausen being baptized with his godfather, Abner Cauton by his side.

Poolside bonding time with our dear bro Abner, sis Lena,  bro Jun and sis Jeany at the CFC conference.

Captured at Francis' birthday celebration.  Ninong Abner cherishes moments with loved ones.

Christmas Fellowship at the Cauton's place.

One of the most cherished memories of Abner’s life was his role as Best Man in Bombie’s wedding—a moment that perfectly captured his loyalty, grace, and quiet strength. It wasn’t just a title; it was a reflection of a lifelong friendship built on trust, laughter, and unwavering support.
On that special day, Abner stood beside Bombie with calm confidence and heartfelt joy. He was the steady hand behind the scenes, making sure every detail was in place, every moment honored. Whether it was straightening a tie, calming nerves, or offering a quiet word of encouragement, Abner’s presence brought peace and warmth to all around him.
His toast was simple, sincere, and unforgettable. He spoke not just of shared memories, but of shared values—of commitment, kindness, and the kind of love that endures. He didn’t seek attention, but his words and actions left a lasting impression. He reminded everyone that being a Best Man isn’t about formality—it’s about showing up with love and humility.
That day, Abner embodied the very best of friendship. He stood not only beside Bombie, but beside all of us, modeling what it means to be present, to serve, and to celebrate others with genuine joy. His memory from that day continues to shine—a quiet light that reminds us of the beauty of devotion and the power of showing up.
Abner’s legacy lives on in the lives he touched, the friendships he nurtured, and the love he gave so freely. May this memory bring comfort to all who mourn him, and may it remind us that even in his absence, Abner’s spirit remains—faithful, kind, and full of grace.

Abner, Bombie, and me—celebrating my daughter’s debut. His joy lives on in our hearts.

Abner sharing lunch with Bombie and my son—his quiet warmth filled the table more than words ever could.

Abner’s quiet strength and faithful friendship were a gift to all who knew him. His presence at my installation as Grand Knight was a silent blessing—one of many moments where he showed up with grace, humility, and love. May he rest in eternal peace, and may we carry forward the kindness he so effortlessly shared.

“Abner with his CLP brothers in Singles for Christ at St. Anthony’s Parish, Virginia—radiating quiet joy, deep faith, and unwavering fraternity. In this moment, he stood not just among friends, but among fellow pilgrims journeying toward Christ. His gentle spirit, servant heart, and warm smile remain etched in our memories. We give thanks for the gift of his life and the grace of his presence.”

📖 “Well done, good and faithful servant… Enter into the joy of your master.” —Matthew 25:23

🙏 Lord, we thank You for Abner’s life—a life lived in service, humility, and love. May his example continue to inspire us to walk faithfully, love deeply, and serve joyfully. Welcome him into Your eternal embrace, where peace and praise never end.

A Sacred Beginning Remembered

This photo captures the joyful union of Abner and Lena—a moment of pure grace, laughter, and love. On this day, they stood hand in hand, surrounded by family and friends, ready to begin a life of shared faith and devotion. Abner’s gentle smile and Lena’s radiant presence reflected the deep bond they carried into their marriage: one built on kindness, trust, and quiet strength.

Their love was patient and kind. It did not envy, it did not boast, it was not proud. It always protected, always trusted, always hoped, always persevered. In every season, Abner and Lena lived the truth of 1 Corinthians 13—not just in words, but in the way they cared for one another and those around them.

Though Abner has gone home to the Lord, this memory remains a beautiful testament to the love they nurtured and the legacy he leaves behind. We honor him not only for the life he lived, but for the love he gave—steadfast, generous, and true.

Dear Sister Lena, Sabrina, and Elise,

The Lord is surely telling bro Abner, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful and trustworthy. Enter into eternal joy with Me”.

Life is not ended by death but changed into eternal life. Bro Abner may not be physically present from now on, but his love for you will always be felt. Love, more than anything else, is what matters. Our departed loved ones will always be there... walking with us, guiding us, helping us...unseen but present.

And please remember that you are not alone in this moment of grief.  We all care for you. Take care of yourselves. Surely, bro Abner would want the best for you in any situation.

The Hebrew name, Abner, means “father of light” or “father is a lamp” signifying illuminated reasoning or enlightenment.  In the Old Testament, Abner was the commander of King Saul’s army.  We lost not only a father and a light but also a very able leader in the Lord’s Army of CFC-Maryland. Bro Abner lived up to the meaning of his name.

I honor Bro Abner for his (and sis Lena’s) selfless service. 
One example among many is their voluntary opening of their home for CFC-MD youth camps. In one such event, there were about 30 (!) youth in attendance in their townhouse. 

He loved and cared for his members. Last year, when CFC-MD hosted the CFC-USA 2024 Eastern Conference, he personally spoke to the members of his unit to convince them to take the rare opportunity to hear the Lord’s messages without the need to spend extra for airfare. He personally collected the post-dated checks and delivered them to our home.

Bro Abner protected CFC unity. When he learned that a relatively new member misinterpreted the community practice of honoring , he did not hesitate to immediately tell me about it. The timely gesture enabled us to nip the potential problem in the bud. 

Bro Abner embraced brotherly correction and was always open to dialogues. In one such session that Bro Abner himself requested, he displayed remarkable humility and moral uprightness.

Brother Abner, you will be missed but you will never be forgotten.

Abner and Lena, united in prayer and conviction, offering one final plea for life outside the clinic doors. Their quiet witness was rooted in love, hope, and the belief that every life is worth fighting for.

Abner Cauton, a devoted servant of the Couples for Christ community, passed into eternal life after a lifetime of faith, friendship, and unwavering generosity.
I first met Abner through Singles for Christ, where his quiet strength and joyful spirit quickly became evident. He stood beside me in prayerful protest at an abortion clinic, and later helped lead make-up sessions for the Christian Life Program with grace and dedication. When I asked him to work with Lena on ministry tasks, he stepped in without hesitation—just as he did when I organized his bachelor’s party, a celebration filled with laughter and brotherhood.
Our friendship deepened over the years. I asked him to be the godfather of my son, and he honored me by asking me to be the godfather of his daughter. That mutual trust and love reflected the kind of man Abner was—steadfast, generous, and always ready to serve.
Abner gave of himself fully: his home was open, his resources shared, his time freely offered. Whether mentoring youth, guiding Household Heads, or supporting Couples for Christ in times of organizational challenge, he remained faithful and humble. He never sought recognition, only the joy of serving God and others.
He leaves behind a legacy of faith, fraternity, and quiet leadership. May we honor his memory by continuing the work he loved so deeply.
"Well done, good and faithful servant." – Matthew 25:23

OBITUARY

Abner Cauton

March 14, 1961 – August 24, 2025

Hines-Rinaldi Funeral Home

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