In Memoriam: William Grant Abernathy, 5 years and 4 months

William Grant Abernathy, 5 years and 4 months, cradled in his mother’s loving arms and surrounded by family and friends, left his earthly home and ran into the arms of Jesus. He arrived at his heavenly home at 8:25 p.m. on Tuesday evening, July 16, 2013 following a courageous battle with secondary cancer – 33 months following diagnosis on October 31, 2010.

Will was born on Palm Sunday, March 16, 2008 at Northside Hospital-Atlanta.  He attended First Baptist Pre-School for two years and was a member of First Baptist Church Sunday School and Awana. He was on the gymnastics team and the Little All Stars.

Will enjoyed playing with his friends, swimming, jumping on his trampoline, going to Stars and Strikes and eating out – especially at Kani House Hibachi. He was also happy being on the go and always had a great attitude and a winning smile that warmed any heart and brightened any day.

Will loved playing games on the iPad and dressing in costumes from his collection from Buzz Lightyear to Darth Vader. He loved going fast on his John Deere tractor at an early age and laughed in delight as mom ran behind him trying to slow him down – he also loved riding his Gator and Cadillac in the cul-de-sac and up the hill to Fieldstone Park.

His loyal companion, boxer, Shelby, kept a watchful eye on Will, somehow understanding his sickness and always tolerating his little boy mischievous acts.

Will is survived by his loving and devoted mother, Melody Abernathy and his loving and devoted father, Don Abernathy Jr. of Cumming; his Nene, Joyce Madar of Cumming, his late Pop, Larry Madar of Hazen, AR; his paternal grandparents, Don and Barbara Abernathy Sr. of Ft. Smith, AR; aunt and uncle, Kristy and Ron Abernathy of Ft. Smith, AR; his boxer, Shelby; and a host of friends who will dearly miss him and loved him so.

Funeral services will be held at 3 p.m. on Saturday, July 20, 2013 at First Baptist Church, Cumming. The Rev. Dr. Bob Jolly will officiate. The family will receive friends on Friday, July 19 from 5–9 p.m. at McDonald and Son Funeral Home & Crematory, 150 Sawnee Drive, Cumming.

The family will receive flowers. Friends who wish to donate in memory of Will may do so to: The Cure, Lighthouse Family Retreat, Van Andel Institute or Alex’s Lemonade Stand.

Condolences may be expressed on-line at www.mcdonaldandson.com.