Clyde Joe Abernathy

Clyde Joe Abernathy, Jr., 79, went to be with his Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ at his residence in Gastonia, North Carolina, on June 3, 2025 with his loving family by his side.

He was born in Lincolnton, North Carolina, on October 25, 1945 to the late Joe and Ruby Cook Abernathy. He also was preceded in death by his first wife of 32 years, Vicki Abernathy, the mother of his children; brother, Charles Abernathy; and sister, Frances Abernathy.

Clyde was an evangelist and had pastored several churches in the Gaston County area. He made it his goal to tell the world about the goodness of the Lord and loved to see people accept Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. He had a wonderful testimony of faith. He performed many weddings, including his daughter Kim’s marriage to Gary Smith. In his free time he enjoyed shopping, playing and coaching softball, he loved to meet people and never met a stranger. After retiring from Danaher Tool Group, he worked his vending machine business. Most of all, Clyde was family oriented and was a devoted husband, father, and grandfather. He leaves many loving memories to be cherished by all who knew and loved him.

He is survived by his beloved wife of 21 years, Sharon Bridges Abernathy; children, Bobby Abernathy and Kimberly Smith and son-in-law, Gary; step-children, Josh Haney, John Haney, and Kristy Kirby; grandchildren, Dylan Smith, Tori Smith; step-grandchildren, Falon Kirby, Raeleigh Kirby, and Trip Kirby; sisters, Phyllis McDaniel and Gladys Harrelson.

Family and friends will gather for visitation from 3:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. on Sunday, June 8, 2025 at Cramerton Temple of God Holiness Church, 5021 Wilkinson Boulevard, Gastonia, North Carolina 28056. A funeral service will be held at 1:00 p.m. at the church on Monday, June 9, 2025 with Reverend Katherine Enscoe officiating. Burial will follow at Gaston Memorial Park, Garden of Peace.

Memorials may be made in memory of Clyde to Cramerton Temple of God Holiness Church, 5021 Wilkinson Boulevard, Gastonia, North Carolina 28056.

Withers and Whisenant Funeral Home and Cremation Service, 2916 Union Road, Gastonia, NC (704) 864-5144 is serving the family.

Online condolences may be made at: www.withersandwhisenantfuneral.com