Bobby Ray Abernathy

Those who knew Bobby knew a man who measured his days by what he could give—through steady work, quiet sacrifice, and a deep sense of responsibility to the people he loved. He carried himself with the kind of devotion that didn’t need attention or applause; it simply showed up, again and again, in the way he lived.

Bobby loved serving in the military so much that after completing his tour of duty in the US Army, he went on to serve honorably in the US Air Force. That same steadfast spirit followed him into his working life. “Retirement” was never a favorite word in his vocabulary, and his dedication ran so deep that he once worked 72 hours straight in an emergency situation—because when something needed doing, Bobby believed in seeing it through.

At the heart of his life was his family. Bobby was a great provider, and he took pride in the blessing of being able to care for those depending on him. He adored his wife of 54 years, Billie Jo Ball Abernathy, who preceded him in death on October 12, 2021. In their home, love was expressed in loyalty, in showing up, and in the values he passed down—teaching his children the strength of hard work, dedication, and the importance of providing for family.

In quieter moments, Bobby could be found cheering on UNC Tarheel Basketball, a faithful fan through every season. His devotion also reached beyond his home, rooted in his dedication to serving God as a member of Bethesda Lighthouse.

Bobby was preceded in death by his father, Donald Harlee Abernathy; his mother, Mary Rachael Cash Abernathy; his wife, Billie Jo Ball Abernathy; and his sister, June Abernathy.

He is survived by his daughter, Tanya Marie Abernathy Jackson of Vale, North Carolina; his son, Daniel Ray Abernathy of Statesville, North Carolina; his sister, Margaret Josey of Statesville, North Carolina; and four grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Bobby will be laid to rest during a private service at Iredell Memorial Gardens in Statesville at a later date.

In lieu of flowers, memorials may be made to a charity of your choice.

Messages of sympathy and words of condolences may be shared with the family, online at www.bunchjohnsonfuneralhome.com

Bunch-Johnson Funeral Home is honored to be entrusted with the care of Bobby and his family.