Billy Abernethy

Billy Gene "The Wizard" Abernethy, 79 of 103 Terrace Dr., died Friday April 18, 2014. He was born in Lincoln co. on June 6, 1934 a son of the late Joseph P. and Cordia Lynn Abernethy.

Mr. Abernethy proudly served his country in the US Army during the Korean War, member of American Legion Post #100 where he was Athletic director for 26, years, inducted into the American Legion Sports Hall of Fame, Cherryville Sports Hall of Fame, and Lincoln County Sports Hall of Fame. The Wizard played for World Champion Howards Furniture Softball Team, played in the Cherryville City League softball, owner of Bill's Wholesale for 40 years and longtime member of First Baptist Church.

He is survived by his wife of 58 years Clara Peeler Abernethy, four children Rebecca Abernethy Schwindeman and husband Dr. James of Belmont, Tim Abernethy of the home, Robin Abernethy Costner and husband Don of Shelby, and Jon Abernethy and wife Jennifer of Cherryville, grandchildren Lee Barnett and wife Rebecca, Mallory Patrie and husband Toby, Christopher Smith and wife Ashlee, Kelsey Grant and husband Jon, Macy Abernethy, Paul Schwindeman, John Schwindeman, and Noah Abernethy and great grandchildren Caleb, Evelyn, Zoie, Letty and Neviah.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 11 AM at First Baptist Church with Dr. Vince Hefner officiating with burial to follow in City Memorial Cemetery. Military Honors will be accorded by American Legion Post #100 Honor Guard. The family will receive friends Sunday at Carpenters Funeral and Cremation Services from 6-8 PM and at other times at the home.

Memorials may be made to First Baptist Church, 301 East First St., Cherryville, NC 28021 or American Legion Post #100 Baseball Fund, 215 N. Pink St., Cherryville, NC 28021.