Joseph Edward Abernathy

Joseph Edward Abernathy, age 82, of The Villages, Florida, died Sunday, November 4, 2012, in The Villages, Florida. He was born October 25, 1930, in Kansas City, Kansas to Robert and Freda Payne Abernathy. He moved to Jefferson City, Mo. in 1945, and graduated from Jefferson City High School, Class of 1947. He faithfully served our country during the Korean Conflict in the US Navy. Upon honorable discharge from military service, he attended the University of Missouri, Columbia, Mo. and graduated in 1957 with a BS Degree in Business Administration. Joe was employed as the first fiscal officer for the City of Jefferson and later worked for the Missouri Law Enforcement Assistance Council. He retired in 1993 from the Missouri Supreme Court as Comptroller of the State Courts Administrator's office. He is survived by his beloved wife of 55 years, Joyce of The Villages, Fla.; sons, Mark of Jefferson City, Matthew of Jefferson City, and Michael (Laurie) of Indianola, Iowa; grandchildren, Christina, Brandon, and Brittany, all of Indianola, Iowa, and many "special" nieces, nephews, and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, twin brothers, Robert and William, and sister, Cora Beth (Corky) Canale. Private memorial service will be held at a later date in Jefferson City, Mo. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the Wounded Warrior Project, Make A Wish Foundation, or any charity of the donor's choice. Arrangements entrusted with HIERS-BAXLEY FUNERAL SERVICES, The Villages, FL 352-753-8353. Sentiments may be left online www.hiers-baxley.com.