Charles Daniel Abernathy

Charles Daniel Abernathy went to heaven on Tuesday November 26, 2024 from his home in Salem OR at the age of 71. He is survived by his wife Deborah, his mother Lois Slover, brother George Riddle (wife Carolyn), Sister Sue Kessel (husband David), 1 nephew, 3 nieces, and 2 great nephews.

He was born on Coronado Island, CA on September 2, 1953. After graduating from Northern Arizona State, he enlisted in the Marine Corps. While stationed in Japan he accepted Christ as his Lord and Savior. After his active military service ended he went to Talbot Theological Seminary, where he was a youth pastor and continued in the active reserves, becoming a Marine Captain. In 1981, during a youth group outing, he had a surfing injury that fractured his neck and severed his spinal cord. This left him a

vent dependent quadriplegic, with a life expectancy of less than 20 years, but God had other plans for Charlie. He lived 43 years post injury and during those years he would earn 3 Master's degrees; write two books and numerous Bible studies; travel; speak at schools, churches, camps and conferences. Charlie was an encourager, adventurer, councilor, friend, teacher, prayer warrior and a smiler.

A Celebration of Life is scheduled for December 27, 2024 at 11:00 AM, at Skyline Baptist Church in Salem OR. A meal and sharing time will be right after. There will be a Military Service at the graveside at 2:30 PM at Franklin Butte Cemetery in Scio OR.

Donation can be made to Awana Youth Association, Samaritan's purse/Heal Our Patriots, or Toys for Tots (Marine Corps).

Interesting facts about Charlie:

Before his injury:

● Cowboy

● Furrier (horse shoer)

● Cannery worker (Stayton, OR)

● ROTC

● Marine Corps Captain.

● Youth Pastor.

● Awana Leader

After his injury:

● Graduated from Talbot Theology Seminary (M.Div.), Biola University (M Ed.), and

Western Oregon University (M. Rehab Counseling).

● Awana Commander.

● Sunday School teacher.

● Church Elder.

● Minister.

● Counselor

● Bible Study Teacher.

● Conference Speaker.

● School Speaker.

● Liberty Elementary LRC Volunteer.

● Author of two books.

● Compassionate and encouraging.

● Traveled (after injury).

● A Smile that could light up a room and humor.

● PRAYER WARRIOR.