Edward Eugene Abernathy

  Edward Eugene ""Gene"" Abernathy was born February 8, 1923 in Cape Girardeau, Missouri. Edward was the only child of Georgia Williams and Fred Abernathy. He passed away Monday, December 7, 2009 in Sacramento, California. Edward will continue to live eternally with the Lord and in the hearts of family and friends. He was married to Rose Lee Matthews Sims, to this union two children were born, Evelyn Abernathy-Atkins and Rodney Abernathy who survive him. He is further survived by cousins; Arnold Irby of Milwaukee, Alberta Kemp of Cape Girardeau, Missouri, and Robert Spicer of Los Angeles, California. ""Gene"" as he was affectionately known by family and friends was raised by his father, aunt Adda and grandmother. His mother passed way when he was a little boy. Gene graduated from John S. Cobb High School in 1942. After high school he moved to Madison, Wisconsin. Gene enlisted into the Army and served during World War II. After the war Gene returned to Madison and married Rosie. Rosie predeceased Gene. Gene retired from Kaiser Permanente Hospital in Sacramento, California. Funeral services will be held at 12 Noon on Wednesday, December 16, 2009 at Cress Funeral Home, 6021 University Ave., Madison, with Pastor David Smith presiding. Family will greet friends from 11:00 am until the time of service at the funeral home. The family would like to thank everyone for their prayers and well wishes.