Letha “ Nadine” Abernathy
May 13,1932-February 9,2025
Letha “Nadine” Abernathy, 92, of Willis, TX, passed away peacefully on Sunday morning, February 9, 2025.
Nadine was born on May 13, 1932, in Eddy, TX, to William Clarence and Lovie Sue Martin as an only child. Known for her loving heart, bright smile, and selfless caregiving spirit, Nadine’s life was deeply anchored in her unwavering faith in the Lord. She walked in the light of Christ, and her love for Jesus Christ was the foundation of everything she did.
A devoted homemaker and longtime member of Oak Lawn Baptist Church in Waco, TX, Nadine dedicated much of her life to serving others, particularly in her church community. She taught Sunday School for 25 years and was the director of the children’s department for more than 35 years. Nadine’s commitment to her church was evident not only through her teaching but also in her role as a choir member, where her voice lifted others in worship.
Nadine was full of life, joy, and energy enjoying arts and crafts. She was a committed mother in her children’s lives, whether as a dedicated PTA member or a chaperone at school events. She treasured spending time with her family, especially her children and grandchildren.
Nadine married Alton Ray “Buzz” Abernathy on December 28, 1960. Together, they raised four children: Sherill, Paula, Ginnie, and Danny. Nadine and Buzz enjoyed 44 years of marriage before Buzz passed away in 2004 following a battle with cancer. After Buzz’s passing, Nadine continued to live in Lacy Lakeview, where she remained deeply involved in her church and family life.
In 2017, Nadine moved to Willis to live with her daughter Ginnie and son-in-law Rick as her health began to decline due to dementia. After a brief return to Lacy Lakeview, she moved back to Willis in 2019, where she received loving care from her family in her final years.
Throughout her life, Nadine was known for her loving nature, her devotion to family, and her occasional endearing stubbornness. Even in her final days, as her health deteriorated, Nadine's faith never wavered. She faced the end of her life not with fear, but with the certainty of one who knew she was going home to be with her Savior.
Nadine will be deeply missed by all who knew her, but her legacy of faith, love, and service will continue to inspire those she left behind.
She is survived by her children: Sherill, Paula, Ginnie, and Danny; two sons-in-law, ten grandchildren, twenty-one great-grandchildren, three great great grandchildren, and many other beloved family members and friends.
Nadine was preceded in death by her husband, Alton Ray “Buzz” Abernathy, her granddaughter Julie Richards, and great-granddaughter Hailey Backus of Waco, TX.
Most will fondly remember Nadine for her warm smile and her extraordinary talent for making the best biscuits and gravy from scratch
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