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Frankie Abernathy Obituary

Frankie Jo Abernathy, a beautiful, talented and loving daughter and sister, passed away on June 9th after a lengthy battle with Cystic Fibrosis. She was 25 years old and born in Kansas City, MO on December 21, 1981. She is survived by her loving mom and step-father, Abbie and Perry Hunter, and sister, Mamie Hunter, all of Milwaukee, WI; and her father and stepmother, Joe and Theresa Abernathy of Hye, TX. Plus many grandparents, uncles, aunts, cousins, and friends who will all miss her dearly. There will be a memorial service on Saturday, June 16th at the Webb-Freer Funeral Home, 205 SW 17th Street, Blue Springs, MO 816-229-2101 at 10:30 AM. Frankie had a passion for and excelled in forensics in high school. She admired her teacher, Ms. Langston, who has graciously volunteered to set up The Frankie Abernathy Scholarship Fund. Memorial contributions can be sent to the Blue Springs High School NFL (National Forensics League), c/o Jackie Langston, 1205 NW Roanoke Drive, Blue Springs, MO 64015.

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Published by Kansas City Star from Jun. 14 to Jun. 15, 2007.

Memories and Condolences
for Frankie Abernathy

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Carson Loveless

March 2, 2024

Condolences to her family and her friends

Bob Hillier

June 8, 2008

Dear Abbie,
I am still so sorry for your loss. I cannot imagine how losing a child must be. I wish you all peace in the future. It was a pleasure meeting you when you came to Peoria last year to help Becky move.

Best Regards,

Bob

Jeremi CUmmings

May 15, 2008

I am from Auburn, AL. I am 36 and I was diagnosed with Cystic Fibrosis at 3 months old. I have struggled with this very devastating disease, as Frankie did.

I read the article of her in SAVAGE magazine and my heart
just broke into. She was a beautiful young lady and a lot like me, as I am the rebel with the tats and piercings...I wish I could have met her...

I just want you to know, that you all are in my thoughts everyday...


~Jeremi Cummings

maria reparto

March 12, 2008

May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.

Shari Hernan

February 26, 2008

Dear Abbie,
I'm sorry I didn't know Frankie. If she was anything like you - what a wonderful person she must have been. I also apologize for not knowing of Frankie's passing until today. I am thinking of you today. Take Care - Shari (Herzig) Hernan

Amber D

February 11, 2008

Frankie was an incredible person & showed such bravery. She didn't let her illness get in the way of living her life to the fullest extent, & I respect her so much for that.

martha oros

July 4, 2007

i watched her on the tv show on mtv. i thought she was a cool person to be friends with. i liked how she dressed. she will be missed.

Tiffany

July 1, 2007

i just wanted to say thank you to frankie for comming out on the show with a very serious problem. which in turn helped me look at my own life. so thank you frankie for helping me open my eyes!

JOCELYN WOLF

June 27, 2007

I thought Frankie was a wonderful person. Her smile lit up the room.
She will be missed

melissa gilebarto

June 27, 2007

i watched her on the show but i didnt know her but i felt like how she felt at times she will be dearly missed always admirer ,mel

Kim Criniti

June 21, 2007

I had the pleasure of meeting Frankie through the internet, right around the time she was very famous from RW. We talked a few times on the phone and sent e-mails and made plans to meet up and it was just... awesome. She was someone I just instantly got along with. And then, we sort of stopped talking and we just fell out of touch and it's weird because I was just thinking about her recently and I sent her an e-mail.

This news has been traumatizing to me, and I never even met her personally. I can't imagine how you must feel, Abbie, Perry, Mamie, Dave, and the rest of her family and friends. She was one of a kind and I hope you know that she made a very positive impression on many lives.

Farewell, Frankie!

from Houston Texas

June 21, 2007

To the family,

I want you to know that Frankie had an impact on the lives of people she never even met. My sister passed away of CF just recently at the age of 25. Back when Frankie was on TV, my sister and I lived in different cities, but we would watch Frankie and then call each other to talk about what we just watched. It helped us to grow closer together. I am eternally grateful for Frankie's courage to share her story. May God bless you and your family during this difficult time.

Roberta Radford

June 20, 2007

Dear Abbie, After reading all the expressions from so many people from all over the country, I know where the free spiritness, life, openess, love, risk-taking, caring, and the all around wonderful person, Frankie, comes from. Abbie you are such a breath of fresh air and always enjoyable to just be around. I have often envied you and Jessie for being able to just be you. You gave God a special angel of light. Thank you and your family for touching my life and helping me to be able to be a more real me. My thoughts and prayers are with you all. I wish you peace, love and joy always.

David C.

June 20, 2007

Her charm and smile will be remembered. She also added a touch to the show "The Real World"
She will be remembered

Alka Family

June 19, 2007

Our hearts and prayers go out to the family. Frankie did a great job on living her life to the fullest and nothing could stop that. She will be missed.

Brooke Solomon

June 19, 2007

Frankie, you were an amazing person. Your life, and the way you lived it, is an inspiration to all. May we all live life like you did, regardless of how much, or how little, time we have left.

James Leahy

June 18, 2007

When I watched Frankie on The Real World, she was someone who represented me. She was beautiful, powerful and an amazing person and she will be greatly missed.

SHELLEY

June 18, 2007

MY SYMPATHIES TO FRANKIES FAMILY AND FRIENDS. WATCHING HER ON REAL WORLD MTV I LOVED HOW SHE STAYED TRUE TO HER SELF. AND THAT SHE LOVED HELLO KITTY NOW WHEN I BUY OR SEE SOMETHING HELLO KITTY I WILL THINK OF HER.

Ashley Taylor

June 18, 2007

To the family:
We do not personally know each other. But as a Cystic myself I can relate in many ways. Frankie definately raised awareness for CF and we can all be thankful for that. I am very sad that she had to part life so soon, but it has made me wake up. My heart goes out to all of you!! It is not goodbye...you will see her later!

xoxo
Ashley

michaleen oneill

June 17, 2007

so sad it is. frankie was so very beautiful, she seemed fun, and unique. all i can do is pray for the family, and tell frankie..."see ya on the other side, dearheart". family, please know we will always remember her, she was a star to me!

Tammy Stephenson

June 17, 2007

Abbie, Perry, & Mamie,
I was so sad to hear of Frankie's passing.
I remember living next to your parents and seeing her when you all came to visit her spunk & free spirit were something I always admired about her. She did more in her short 25 years then some people do in their whole lifetime.
I remember when she was on Real World and my girls Whitney & Taylor saying mom isn't that Launitas granddaughter? She is going to be on the show. We watched it faithfully because of her.
Abbie like you said yesterday she may be gone physically but her spirit will always live on in our hearts and minds. I take comfort in knowing that now she is finally able to breathe again. God has another plan for her now and she is going to do great things again in her new life.
My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family at this time. Abbie
I know you have alot of things on your plate right now but later on if you can I would really enjoy hearing from you. It was such a pleasure living next to your folks and getting to know such a wonderful family.
God Bless!
Tammy Stephenson

Kristine Lindskoog

June 17, 2007

You don't know me but I am a survivor of a double lung transplant due to CF. CF is a dibilitating disease and I understand what Frankie was going through. I watched her on "the Real World" and she is an inspiration for the rest of the CF world. To have the courage to put yourself out there, gives others strength, to people she would never know. God bless her and hold her, I will keep fighting for my life and never forget people like her.

ROBIN

June 17, 2007

May GOD bless your family at this time of sorrow.Keep your heads held high and remember, you all will be togeather again. GOD BLESS

jennifer keith

June 17, 2007

My heart goes out to my family The Abernathy's, for the lose of a fabulous, spunky, vibrant young women. Stay strong Joe jr. love you. Jennifer

Megan W

June 17, 2007

I saw the Real World San Diego and Frankie was one of my favorite cast members on the show. She seemed really cool. My prayers go out to you and your family. May Frankie rest in peace!

Stacy Mason

June 17, 2007

I never missed an episode of Frankie's season of The Real World. I have CF and when I learned that one of the cast mates suffered from the disease I just knew I had to watch it. She's so much like me. I'm just so sorry to hear that she has passed at such a young age (I will be 29 on the 26th of this month)R.I.P. Frankie from all of us in the CF community. Rock on Hello Kitty...

Kristin Grimmett

June 17, 2007

I am saddened to see another precious young life taken by cystic fibrosis. All three of my kids have CF, so your loss hits close to home, although I didn't know Frankie. I am sure she was an amazing girl, as all who battle this horrible disease tend to be exceptional people. Having known a child (or adult) with CF leaves us forever changed. They model strength that no healthy person can imagine. May you find peace in knowing she no longer has to fight. God bless you all!

Kathy Harnden and Family

June 17, 2007

I had the privilege of meeting Frankie and found her to be a wonderfully funny and beautiful young woman who didn't let her illness stop her for one second. She did what made her happy and that is what life is about. I admired her greatly and continue to admire the courage of Abbie, Perry and Mamie. My love to all of you at this difficult time.

GERMIL RANKIN

June 17, 2007

R.I.P FRANKIE

Beth Marine

June 17, 2007

To Frankie's Family - My heart goes out to you in this time of loss. I hadn't met Frankie personally, but watched her on the Real World and as a parent of twin boys with CF she was a favorite of mine. I faithfully watched the show weekly because she was on it. Her spunk was fun to watch and wish I could have known her.

June 17, 2007

I met Frankie once in the hospital. She was the most approachable person I have ever met. Her smile lit up a room and I will always remember how gracious she was. I pray that you find peace in this your time of great sorrow. Know that you have an agel to watch over you, and know that Frankie is with God, making everyone smile.

larry

June 17, 2007

Frankie Jo though i did'nt know you personally & only from a far on real world i could'nt help but admire how you walked to your own beat w/o seemingly a care & that i admired about you ! you did what most people can only dream about in your very short 25 yrs - God Bless You you'll be missed .. Larry , LasVegas Nevada

Jan MacDonald

June 17, 2007

Abbie, I just read about your daughter, Frankie. I was Ed Sullivan's wife at the apartments in Grandview that you used to work for. I saw her obit and was really shocked to know that she was the girl we have all seen on TV. I am so sorry for your loss. I know she was such a gifted one. You were always so fun... I know you were a GREAT MOM to her!!! I am praying for you!!! Email me if you would like. I would love to hear from you and would love to try to give you my support. Jan

jeff pini

June 16, 2007

MY HEART AND MY PRAYERS GO OUT TO THE FAMILY.

Karen Renfrow

June 16, 2007

Perry, Abbie and Mamie, our Hearts go out to you on the loss of Frankie. A beautiful young Woman filled with Love and courage that touched everyone she met. I will always treasure the time I was able to meet her and the warmth she shared.My Kimberly, David and Melissa send their Love, and will always tell their friends that Frankies Mom is friends with my Mom. You are always in our thoughts. Love, Charlie and Karen

Kristen C

June 16, 2007

Frankie. You know when someone just grabs your attention and you become intrigued by them? That is how it was for me with Frankie. She was (is) so beautiful.. full of life..with such a warm spirit. She was unique.. and many people loved that about her. She has touched so many lives.. and I don't think she even realized it. Love you Frankie... Heaven has gained something beautiful.

Megan A.

June 16, 2007

I didnt know Frankie personally but I did see her on the Real World show. She was my favorite! She was awesome. My prayers go to the family and friends of this beautiful young lady. Rest In Peace Frankie

Jeannette Ortega

June 16, 2007

my heart goes out to all of you. I used to listen to frankie when she worked at the buzz and scoops was the one who told me what happened. frankie I wish I could have hung out with you, we had even talked about it. your very loved and you will be missed

Rosie Lora

June 16, 2007

Frankie, you did not know me personally but you helped me through a very tough time in my life without even knowing it. You taught me that pain can be expressed in other ways and not by hurting myself. God has you now in his heavenly arms. May God Bless You always. You were really special!!!!!!!

Sierra Laughlin

June 16, 2007

I never knew Frankie, but her cousin is my best friend. You are all in my thoughts and prayers. Love and Peace to all ...

Linda, Kelsey and Spencer

June 16, 2007

We will never forget our dinner with you all at the Elephant Bar. Our favorite memory is the story of the "mouse" by the washing machine. What a grand storyteller Frankie was and a delight to be in her presence! She was a free spirit whose time was all to short on this earth.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you all.

michele

June 16, 2007

I only knew of Frankie from watching the real world, a show i didnt really much care for until her season aired, and i quickly fell in love with and admired her. i loved how outspoken she could be and not having an older sibling i would look to her in certain aspects. she will always be remembered.

Pam

June 16, 2007

Perry, Abbie and Mamie,
I am so sorry for your loss. Abbie, I only saw Frankie once as a patient but you always told me what she was up to. ( I use to work as a dental hygienist in Lees Summit and saw you frequently). I think of your family often. Please let me know how things are going. Again I am very sorry and all the best to your family.

Edith Duskin

June 16, 2007

Abbie,our love will always go on for Frankie. I watched her grow up and cherish those moments. She is just as special as her mom is. You and Jessie are and will always be the sister I never had. I love you all. We will see our angels one day again.Today your words gave me strength, and other ways to look at life. Our babies are still alive as long as we keep them alive. I love you all. Edith Duskin and Dusty Fine

Mickey Ebert

June 16, 2007

I had Frankie in my 5th grade class. She was bouncy, dramatic, artistic, and loving. She was a loyal friend and it was my pleasure to teach her. I can still remember her smile, and her laugh. She made me quite famous when she was on "Real World." My niece was going to school at University of Nevada, Las Vegas and every week the college students would watch it on MTV. I became famous by proxy by having been her teacher!
I was so moved at the funeral today. Mamie did a great job at an impossible feat of speaking. Both Joe and Abby reassured me in different ways - one for Frankie's future and one for her past.
I was fortunate to have known Frankie and to be taught BY her.

Marsha O'Connor

June 16, 2007

Dear Perry and Abbie,
I was so sorry to learn about your loss. I last saw you when we were chalk painting at Union Station. You had just taken Frankie to San Diego for the Real World. I watched her go through her ups and downs...like everyone. She seemed to be special just like her parents and dear sister, Mamie. I'm thinking of you...with all my love, Marsha O'Connor

June 16, 2007

We wish to express our deepest sympathy to Frankie's Family . Frankie was a strong young woman and loved life to the fullness. She was very special . Our prayers, thoughts and love are with all of you .
Doug and LeAnne

Vicki Blakeley

June 16, 2007

As a Real World fan, and because I had lived in the KC area, I paid close attention to Frankie. I loved her spunk and her zest for life. My sympothies to her family on her passing.

Bob Hillier

June 16, 2007

I never met Frankie, but I am a friend of Rebecca in East Peoria, who knew her. I was with Rebecca when she crafted the Ya Ya quilt. I have heard many stories about Frankie, and Rebecca's vacation with the family. God bless you all in this time of trial.

Doug & Jane Stephens

June 15, 2007

It was our privilege to meet & talk with Frankie on several occasions at the home of her Uncle & Aunt, Greg & Mel Abernathy. A delightful young lady!. Some day, cystic fibrosis will be cured. God bless you, Frankie, you helped people understand it. Doug & Jane Stephens

June 15, 2007

I did not know Frankie well,I went to HS with her and she seemed to draw all sorts of people to her! She seemed outgoing and loving. You all are in my thoughts during this time of sorrow.

Erica

June 15, 2007

I went to High School with Frankie,and she was the most wonderful,loving person.She made you laugh no matter what kind of day you had!
I lost touch with her for a long time..but i found her back on myspace and i talked to her a few weeks ago.Im glad i got to speak with her again,she knows she is loved dearly.I will never forget her and my prayers go out to her family.The memory of Frankie will forever live on.

Sherry Smith-Baker

June 15, 2007

In Remembrance of Frankie Abernathy
On behalf of Della Lamb Community Services please accept our sincere condolences at the passing of your beautiful daughter, Frankie Abernathy. Your precious daughter had a giving heart. We will remember her for the part she played in Della Lamb’s “Sweet Things Fashion Show Revue” Auction Fundraiser in 2006. Frankie, along with four female KC celebrities took the stage to model fashion gowns made out of hard candy. Barkley Evergreen & Partners sponsored Frankie, with Perry Hunter, Frankie’s stepfather and the employees at BEAP orchestrating the design and creation of her gown. Beautifully dressed and accessorized Frankie wore a gown constructed by her Mother.

We are so thankful for the privilege to know your daughter. Understanding then that her life might be cut short, we never dreamed it would be this soon. Prayers are lifted up to you and your family during this most difficult time in your life. Sherry Smith, Community Relations Director

Catherine Warner Williams

June 15, 2007

I never met Frankie Jo, but shared the loss of another loved one with her father Joe last summer when our friend Steve died.I know she must have been beautiful, and you will miss her always. My heart goes out to all of you in your loss.

John Lanigan

June 15, 2007

My deepest sympathy to the family and friends of Frankie. I enjoyed her time in "The Real World". Frankie was strinkingly beautiful. I bet she was just as magnificant inside to her friends and family. May she be with the angels forever.

The Doellings

June 15, 2007

Our family will always remember Frankie. She was a very special person. Her love for her little sister was well known. We'll always remember the trip to Florida she made with us. Sincere sympathy to the family.

Rachel B

June 14, 2007

My husband and I worked with Frankie for a short time and I went to school with her also. We will always remember her amazing personality. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of her friends and family during this hard time.

June 14, 2007

To the family, may you always remember the way Frankie smiled and the good life she had. She was very special and she will be missed. Our prayers are with you all.

Jason

June 14, 2007

I went to middle school with Frankie and talked to her via myspace back in March. I am saddened to hear of her passing and want the family to know my thoughts and prayers are with you. Frankie will truly be missed.

Michelle B

June 14, 2007

My deepest condolences to the Abernathy friends and family. I did not know Frankie Jo however I did watch her on the Real World. She seemed like a great person and she impacted many lives. My thoughts and prayers are with you during this trying time.

Michael

June 14, 2007

My heart goes out to Frankie's family and friends. I loved her on TV and felt sooo bad for her. She was so beautiful. She is at peace now. God bless.

Lauren Sullivan

June 14, 2007

Frankie my friend... you were a Godsend. I will miss you and your sarcastic witt. The way you drew people to you. You were loved by all. I won't be able to walk by the cheese at the store without thinking of you. HAHA Sweet Cherries and Hello Kitty. I love you sweetie.

June 14, 2007

I did not know Frankie personally, but, she made me smile! Her love of life had a way of shining through her pain. My prayers are with all of her friends and family.

Sherry M

June 14, 2007

I am so sorry for your loss. I watched the Real World San Diego. Your daughter was full of spunk and lived life to the fullest. You are in my thoughts.

Andy Sorkin

June 14, 2007

I am very sad to hear of Frankie's passing. My thoughts and prayers are with her family and friends. She will be remembered forever.

A friend and a fan

June 13, 2007

You have touched many lives without even knowing it. May God bring you the peace that you deserve.
To Frankie's family: I pray that you find happiness in the memories that you have and thank you for sharing your Frankie with the rest of the world.

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