1959-2024
Leslie (Les) Brett Abernathy, age 65, passed away on Friday, November 15, 2024, in McGehee, Arkansas. Les was born on August 15, 1959 in Pine Bluff, Arkansas to P. J. and Ella Jo (Tanner) Abernathy. He was preceded in death by his father, Percy Joe Abernathy, Jr.
Les is survived by his wife of nineteen years, Nancy LaFarra Abernathy of McGehee; his Mother, Ella Jo Abernathy of Noble Lake, his brother, Scott (Melissa) Abernathy of Pine Bluff. His children: Natalie (Anthony) Abernathy of Williamsburg, VA.; Leslie Brett (Sarah) Abernathy II of McGehee; and Kari Epperson of Maumelle, AR. Step-Children Jonathan (Morgan) Wilson of Jonesboro and Adrienne (Larry Don) Miles of McGehee; nine grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and cousins.
Having grown up in the Noble Lake area of Jefferson County, he graduated from Jefferson Prep School. His work dedication and friendliness with co-workers served him well during his career with Potlach/Clearwater Paper.
Les was a devoted husband, son, father, grandfather, brother, friend, and pillar of the community. He was active in the First Baptist Church of McGehee and participated in several mission trips to Honduras as part of their Honduras Medical and Dental team, serving as team cook. His servant attitude impacted the local community with his work with the McGehee Cemetery Association, Masonic Lodge, and even volunteer opportunities with children at church and local schools, portrayal of Santa during Christmas, or mowing a neighbor’s yard. He shared his unique creative gift with so many through woodworking and partnering with his wife, Nancy, on many art, craft, and commissioned paintings and furniture pieces. Les and Nancy also shared a love for travel as they have traveled across the United States visiting family and sightseeing.
His legacy of love, faith, and creativity will live on in everyone who knew him. Once you met him - you were friends! He was just one of those people that could find someone he knew no matter where he was - even thousands of miles away from McGehee. He loved to talk - to anyone willing to listen - and he had stories, jokes, and harmonica tunes to share! AND not only people loved him, but animals of all kinds loved him. He especially loved his pet dogs.
But above all, Les cherished his family; always making time for his Mom, wife, children, and grandchildren.
You could always count on Les to send or post photos of sunrises and sunsets. Friday, November 15th he witnessed one last sunset and moon rise here on earth and now He is enjoying eternal sunshine.
“Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5:16 (NIV)
A visitation will be held Tuesday, November 19, 2024, from 5-7 pm at Griffin-Culpepper Funeral Chapel in McGehee, Arkansas. Funeral service will be held Wednesday, November 20, 2024 at 11:00 am, at the First Baptist church in McGehee, Arkansas with Bro. David Brown officiating. Interment will follow at McGehee Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, please consider contributing to the following in Les Abernathy’s memory: McGehee Cemetery Association or Honduras Missions c/o First Baptist Church, McGehee.
