Benjamin Hugh Abernathy

Driving down the streets of gold in his over-powered, custom 1940 Ford hot rod that is "keeping time" with rhythmic, low rumbles, Benjamin Hugh Abernathy hopes that y'all will not weep for too long over his passing on January 24, 2021. He's now attending the biggest car shows with his friend, Jesus.

Born feet first, Ben was the rambunctious, curious, and daredevil only child of Martin Luther Abernathy and Eloise Annie Thurmond Abernathy. In high school he ran track and cross country. He held many speed records at the school for several decades after his graduation. He definitely lived with a positive disposition and a servant's heart throughout his life. Ben briefly attended Truett-McConnell University and began his 34 year career with "the bell system" working for Western Electric. In 1967, he was drafted by the United States Army (3rd times the charm) to be a radar operator and served in Vietnam from 1968-1969. He served with the same four guys throughout his tour and kept in touch with them throughout the years. After he returned from his duty, His roommate's girlfriend set him up on a blind date with her younger sister one weekend in 1971. It only took one look at those long legs (he was a leg man), those big blue eyes, and that gorgeous blonde hair and he was smitten. After dating mere months, he proposed to Jan and a year later they married. If you knew Ben, then you also knew something about Jan - even if you hadn't met her yet. She was the love of his life and their love grew into a beautiful family where Ben found himself completely surrounded by girls - even the pets were all female for many years. He taught his three daughters how to tell the difference between a phillips and a flat head and how to change a tire and check the oil. He shared his love of cars as well as his sense of humor. Most importantly, Ben demonstrated to them how a real man, a Godly man sacrifices for the woman he loves and his children. A natural story teller and people-person, no one was a stranger to Ben. He could travel to a state he'd never been to before and still see someone he knew. True story, just ask his wife. He had a deep passion for God. He led his family to church and served in leadership roles that ranged from youth leader to sound board operator to elder. He was always the kind of guy who believed that all money is God's and He will provide what you need when you needed it. Ben would give anyone the shirt off of his own back if he felt led to do so. So, he would want me to tell you there's no need to worry about him. He's no longer "hanging in there like a hair in a biscuit" but is instead hearing his Savior say "Well done my good and faithful servant". (Matt 25:21)

Ben is preceded in death by both of his parents. He leaves behind his wife of almost 50 years, Jan B. Abernathy of Cumming, and their three daughters, Rebecca Hubbard and Amber Abernathy both of Cumming and Sheneia Parks of Dawsonville, four grandchildren, Syd, Harrison, Jaden, and Anneliese, as well as his first great-grandchild expected to be born in late May. He is also survived by two sisters-in-law, Lee Perkins of Gainesville, FL and Lyn Billings of Atlanta, two nephews, Dr. Trey Perkins and Whitney of Gainesville, FL and Steve Billings of Newnan, and countless other friends and family members. Ben wanted to be cremated and therefore there will be no visitation. In the hopes of being able to gather more freely amid a pandemic, a memorial service will be held in his honor at 11:00 a.m. March 6, 2021 (the 50th anniversary of his first date with his wife) at the VFW Post 9143 where he was a Life Member located at 1045 Dahlonega Hwy, Cumming, GA 30041. The service will be held in the open-air pavilion. For those with fragile health, the family plans to stream the service live both on social media and through Zoom. The internment of Ben's remains will be at a later date at the Georgia National Cemetery. In lieu of flowers, the family asks that you help cover the unexpected costs by sending a donation. There is a GoFundMe account set up for the family or you can donate in honor of Jan Abernathy at Citizens Bank in Cumming. Thank you to Ingram's Funeral Home, VFW Post 9143, and the Georgia National Cemetery volunteers for their help in making our final farewell to our beloved Ben a beautiful one.