LEROY ABERNATHY

JACKSON -- Leroy Linus Abernathy, 67, of Jackson died Wednesday, Dec. 16, 1998, at Southeast Missouri Hospital in Cape Girardeau.

He was born March 10, 1931, in Jackson, son of Linus and Bertha Hermina Voges Abernathy. He and Patsy Clingingsmith were married June 28, 1953, at Jackson.

Abernathy was employed by city of Jackson 37 years, retiring in 1994 as supervisor of water and sewer construction. He was a member of Emanuel United Church of Christ.

He and his wife were foster parents 25 years and took care of 169 children.

Survivors include his wife; a son, Jon Abernathy of Jackson; a brother, Kenneth Abernathy of Jackson; a sister, Arlene Gaines of Poplar Bluff; and a grandson.

He was preceded in death by his parents and a son.

Friends may call at Cracraft-Miller Funeral Home from 4-7 p.m. today.

Funeral will be at 10 a.m. Friday at the funeral home, with the Rev. Sam Roethemeyer officiating. Burial will be in Russell Heights Cemetery.